I can't help but agree with this, because you think of the consequences, "what will people think, they'll start talking", "I don't want people to make fuss". But mostly because it gets other people involved in your problem, which normally, you don't want. (excludes cry-outs for attention)
One of my goals now, is to find someone like you (in person, because talking face to face is my 'thing'), and make them a lifelong friend =P
The 'sad statistic', sorry if it offends anyone, but when i recognised the pun, i had to laugh.
i guess this is my tip? :The HSC is only one of the paths you can take to reach your goals, if it crumbles, you can always think of alternatives (e.g TAFE, bridging courses, pathways, deferring studies)
my careers teacher told me that unis prefer applicants with more experience, they'll accept the older applicant over the younger (just out of yr12), because they have a certain higher level of commitment (less chance of dropping out halfway), and usually some experience in the field
(e.g. you want to go into veteriary science, you have studied vet nursing, you've done experience at a clinic etc... shows commitment)
What you said about uni is very interesting. I'd never thought about that before. Thanks for letting us all know
hehe no the pun is funny. When I wrote it, I didn't even think about it... but it's definitely worthy of a little chuckle
I also agree with what you said about depression being something that most people do not like to share with others. I think there is a definite shame often associated with depression. Societal attitudes probably create this, which is why it is so important to speak about this kind of stuff and recognise that it is a REAL and very serious problem.
Thanks for the post, and i'm honoured that you plan on finding a friend like me. haha
Have a good one,
Ash xo