Adults of reddit who were depressed kids or teens, what is it like to be here when you didn't expect to make it this far? What would you tell your younger self if you could?

Been depressed just about my whole life, since elementary if I recall correctly. I was always an outcast and just couldn’t seem to fit in. I was athletic, smart, handsome, and for some reason I let fear and ridicule get the best of me. I went through high school and never reached my full potential, I could’ve played ball somewhere but I let criticism get the best of me. Now I live my life in regret and look at myself like a wasted talent. Went to college though and earned a BA, got addicted to drugs in college, vowed when I graduated I’d quit everything, I did exactly that but the repercussions of years of abuse have left a permanent scar on my body. I need to seek help honestly. I know it’ll help. Just about everyday I ask myself why I don’t end it? I’ve already wasted too many good opportunities and there just seems like no hope at this point to continue, but I will continue. If not for me, for my family and what friends I have left. I keep telling myself one day I’ll make it, I hope I do. I’m not a religious man anymore, but I think it’s time to go back because that’s all I have.. to keep my sanity.

/r/AskReddit Thread