Does anyone have a bit of info. regarding depression and possibly bipolar disorder in (female) teenagers?

A friend of mine is 17 and i have some concerns about her but she's really good at covering things up. I know some people with depression and who are bipolar so i'm not unfamiliar with it but i could do with a bit of advice. She wants to do something about things but she doesn't really know how to get started with a councellor. There's just too much history if you know what i mean. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks.

Getting started is always the hardest part, for the patient and the counselor. But if she and you are really concerned, and if the problems she is facing are interfering with her ability to function in day to day life, then she should consider seeking out advice for a referral to someone who has experience with these things, either from a school counselor, family doctor, or someone else who knows a good qualified mental health professional. The best of luck to you and your friend.

First of all, school counselors are professionals and they have to set histories aside. If your friend can't talk to her, can she go to a mental health clinic? Her GP may refer her to a specialist. Are you thinking that she needs medication? Such would need a prescription either from a GP or a psychiatrist. A therapist might want to try so other techniques before medication. Meanwhile, keep on being the good friend to her that you are. Sounds like she needs the support and a good listening ear.