I’ve been diagnosed with clinical depression recently after 13 years of feeling that I was just sad and grumpy all the time. My mom realized something was seriously wrong with me after my cat died, my best friend moved, and all of my friends deserted me because they didn’t know the “real me.”

A guy friend of mine, (I get along better with guys and can tell them things easier than girls), was there for me when things got bad and we’ve got a very special relationship, but it is not romantic. This past year I made good friends with another guy who I like in a romantic way. We have talked a lot over the phone this summer and I feel very close to him.

One night I had a dream that I was at the zoo, in the town where my relatives live, holding my best friend that moved's hand. I would turn around and reach out my hand to her and when she would take it I felt like nothing could go wrong and I was safe. I remember thinking in my dream, “this is what it’s like to be in love.” (I thought this about my best friend?!?!?)

The very next night I dreamt again. This time I was on a moving walkway (like they have in airports), and I was holding my guy friend’s (the one who is special but not romanticly) hand. He wallked with me on the side as I rode on the walkway. I remember looking behind me on the walkway and he was there, but he was still holding my hand at the same time. The same night I dreamt that my “romantic” friend was holding both of my hands and swinging me around on a beach.

What is wrong with me and this holding hand thing? I think it’s very odd. . . maybe not though. Another odd thing is that, while people say you always dream, you just don’t remember them, I don’t think I ever dream. Then to have these two dreams two nights in a row? Weird.

- Jenna, Age 15, Dillon, CO, USA

Hi Jenna -

There’s nothing wrong with you!

The recurring theme in your dreams - holding hands with your friends - is a symbol of support. It appears that you have finally gotten a handle on your depression - by being properly diagnosed and treated. I think you are feeling pretty good now and also are grateful to those friends who stuck with you through all the hard times.

I’m very happy to learn that you are feeling better. I think your dreams are a positive sign that things will continue to go well for you. I also think you have learned a valuable lesson about friendship. In the future you will know how much it means to be available for a friend when they need your help.

Keep up the good work!