12 years of acne have kept me in constant depression.
Questions posted in the Mental Health forum are being answered by Dr. Roger L. Gould, author of the Mastering Stress and Depression program and affiliated with the UCLA. Department of Psychiatry. Topics covered include anger, attention deficit disorder (ADD), bipolar disorder, dementia, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), learning disabilities, memory, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic, personality disorders, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, stress, transitions, and work problems.
It must be difficult to go through so many years of your life feeling so bad about your appearance.
The symptoms you present are suggestive of depression.
Major Depression is characterized by poor sleep, a false sense of worthlessness and hopelessnes, decreased motivation, low self-esteem, and decreased energy. If severe, the sufferer may have suicidal ideations.
The good news is that treatment is available.
A psychiatrist may offer psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to improve your self image, and to help you cope with your current stresssors. Don't give up!
Best Wishes,
HFS M.D.-SW