Not sure whether to carry it on or not

[Jordan181]

Okay I started talking to this girl about a week ago and all in all she's good. She's good looking, great music taste and we have some really fun conversations. However, (some of you might think this is really shallow of me) she suffers from depression and she cuts herself. Now I'm not saying that I think she's attention seeker or anything like that, I completely understand it's a real and serious thing, I just don't think that I'd be able to deal with this if we got into a serious relationship.

Another thing is that a couple of my friends have had things with her in the past and they no longer think very highly of her. I'm not sure if it would seem unloyal towards them or something.

The last thing is that she is 2 years younger than me and I don't think my parents would approve of me seeing a younger girl

[Waleedbt]

If you truly like her then those things you listed should and would never effect what you think about her.

[Magenta]

I am going to be very honest with you: it is okay if you do not want a relationship with her because of those things. Some people cannot handle the stress of dealing with someone with mental health and addiction issues. It may feel like you're judging her or being unfair or shallow but these are serious problems and if you don't feel equipped to address them, that is perfectly okay. If you like her, then go ahead and take the chance. You may find that as you get to know more about her, you can help and it may work out. But if it is too much for you, there is nothing wrong with you looking out for yourself.

You're not being disloyal to your friends. They've moved on and your life and decisions are your own. I'd suggest just start by being friends with this girl. Try to support her and see if getting her help is an option. Don't force it, just test the waters. If it's not right for you or for her, then it's okay to step away.

Mental illness and relationships are hard. It takes a lot of work, for both people, and some people are able to deal with it better than others. No one can fault you for just not knowing what to do. You're not unreasonable for having reservations. But go with your gut and you'll figure it out.