1. Learn more about depression
Find out how depression affects your emotions and your body, and read about the various treatments available before speaking with a healthcare professional. You can also make a list of questions to ask during your visit. View some questions to ask your doctor.
2. Make an appointment with a doctor
Talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional about your symptoms. He or she can tell you whether you have depression and work with you to plan a course of action that you feel good about. Your doctor may also suggest that you see a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or a therapist. Learn more about different ways of treating depression.
3. Talk to your friends and family
Depression can be isolating. Your loved ones can be a real source of comfort and emotional support. They may even help you with practical things like finding a doctor or therapist. You don't have to face depression alone. After talking to friends and family about it, you might actually feel relieved.
A note about suicidal thoughts
Thoughts about death or suicide are common in depression, and it's important to take such thoughts seriously. If you feel like giving up or as if you might hurt yourself, get help immediately:
- Call your doctor
- Go to the emergency room
- Call emergency phone number
