<p>I'm 15 years old and currently a sophomore in high school (rising junior). Since elementary school I've been juggling ADD, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Most of my middle school years were completely dominated by an obsessive fear of vomit that ruled my everyday life to the point where I couldn't go to movie theaters or even the nurse's office.
This fear contributed to (but by no means caused) an unwavering and crippling depression that followed me long after (and still continues to follow me somewhat).
However, due to my interest in psychology, I've been able to understand this chemical balance and I have now reached a point where I can think rationally during my depressive episodes. Not only that, but I haven't attempted any form of suicide in 4.5 years and I haven't intentionally self-harmed myself in any way in over a year. I'm very proud of this considering that this year may have been the hardest year of my life due to my parents divorcing and a family member in rehab for an alcohol addiction. On top of that, I've been having issues with a "friend" who has tried to drive me over the edge for 3 years now. Despite all this, my grades have never been better. :)
My question is this: would colleges appreciate this story or would it scare them away? Would they fear a relapse in terms of depressive episodes?</p>
<p>Depression is a prickly issue. Certainly, colleges don’t want to admit another Cho Seung-Hui or someone who might kill themselves when classes are too stressful. I think, though, that as long as you frame things in a very positive light and emphasize how you’ve changed and grown from the experience, you can pull it off. I would get medical documentation if you can to attest to your recovery.</p>
<p>I would definitely not share this story. The only reason to tell them would be to explain poor grades and that doesn’t seem to be the case. It’s great your doing well. I’d recommend picking another topic.</p>
<p>I agree with milkweed</p>
<p>" I haven’t attempted any form of suicide in 4.5 years and I haven’t intentionally self-harmed myself in any way in over a year"</p>
<p>This is definitely something to be proud of, however, I think it might raise red flags to colleges if expressed in this way.</p>
<p>Yeah, you’re right. While it may be an accomplishment for a depressed person to have gone this long with attempted suicide, the average person hasn’t attempted suicide at all in their lifetime (I’m assuming), soo…</p>
<p>I think you should ask someone who knows you well to write a rec about this. Your problem will be more appreciated, I think.</p>
<p>SHARE YOUR STORY! It will make you stand out from the crowd. I suffer from depression and ADD/ADHD as well. I talked about it in my college essay and I got into 10 schools all over the country. Be honest, not gross. If you write a killer essay that has truth to it you will surely get into great schools.</p>