The first step to getting appropriate treatment for depression is to meet with a health professional or a mental health professional. An examination by a your family doctor can be a good place to start. Certain medications as well as some medical conditions such as a viral infection can cause the same symptoms as depression, and your doctor can rule out these possibilities through examination, interview, and lab tests.
If a physical cause for the depression is ruled out, a psychological evaluation can be done, by the physician or by referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist. Family doctors actually prescribe more antidepressants than psychiatrists, but psychotherapy (another effective treatment for depression) requires a mental health professional.
How to get Help if you are Depressed
Last updated 11/7/05
