Depression is a common medical condition, but many people find it hard to admit they have an issue with it.If you know how to talk to a doctor about depression, you will be able to get the help you need.
Step 1: Don't forget to develop an understanding of depression.
If you decide to tell your doctor about the symptoms of depression, you will know what to say.Before your appointment, read up on the symptoms of depression.It will be easier for you to talk to your doctor if you do some research.Little hope for the future feeling worthless or guilty being easily agitated are some of the symptoms of depression.The appetite can change due to sleeping too much or too little.Losing or gaining weight using alcohol, drugs, gambling or other vices to distract or self-medicate.
Step 2: It's possible that it is common in your family.
When thinking about your risk for depression, it's a good idea to consider your family history.Depression can be both genetic and environmental and can run through multiple generations of a family.Ask your parents or siblings if they have ever battled depression or know someone who has.Your doctor will be able to treat you more effectively if he knows the source of your symptoms.
Step 3: Take a moment to think about the recent changes you have experienced.
Depression can be caused by a combination of psychological, biological, and social factors.It's hard to see a connection, but certain circumstances in life can contribute to depression.Depression can be caused by stressors such as trauma or abuse in early childhood, financial strain, loneliness, alcohol or substance abuse, chronic pain or medical conditions.
Step 4: A list can be made.
If you've noticed recurring periods of depression, you should make a list of the times you feel depressed, what emotions you are feeling, and what's going on in your life that you think might be contributing to the problem.It is easier to talk to your doctor about depression if you have a history of it.You can download a form that will allow you to be aware of potential questions your doctor may ask and be prepared with your answers.You can bring this with you to your appointment to make sure you cover all bases.You can do an online search.
Step 5: If you want to involve someone else first, figure it out.
Before seeing a doctor for depression, some people need a support system.If you want to bring someone else with you to the doctor's office, you should think about that before you go.If you are a religious person, you may want to talk to your pastor to get help.If you have a close family member or friend who has dealt with depression, you can ask him to attend the appointment with you.You may be comforted by the fact that someone else has gone through the same thing.
Step 6: Do you have a good relationship with your doctors?
Before you make an appointment, think about how you will bring up the subject of your depression.If you don't have someone to go with you for support, you might consider choosing a different doctor to talk to.Your primary care doctor isn't the only option.Some people feel more comfortable with other doctors, such as a gynecologist or a cardiologist.She can refer you to a mental health specialist if you talk to the physician about your symptoms.In an emergency situation, an ER doctor or hospital mental health professional can provide support and give you information on where to seek help when you leave the hospital.Clinical social workers, a counselor at a community mental health center, University- or medical school-affiliated programs, state hospital outpatient clinics, family service/social agencies, private clinics and facilities, and employee assistance programs are some of the places where you may be able to find help.
Step 7: You should manage your expectations.
Think about your goals for the visit after you choose a doctor.What do you want to accomplish when you see your doctor?Be sure that your expectations are realistic.Pick one or two realistic goals for the visit.It is unlikely that you will get a diagnosis and stop the symptoms in a week.Going with the goal to let your doctor know about your symptoms and learn more about depression is realistic and likely to be met.
Step 8: The issue shouldn't be minimized.
Tell the truth about your symptoms.Honesty is a must when dealing with depression because your doctor is there to help.Being honest and talking openly is the best way to help your doctor."Oh, it's not so bad" makes the issue sound smaller than it is.
Step 9: Speak plainly about the issue.
You need to be clear about your symptoms.Don't speak about the issue ambiguously.Your doctor can tell you if your problems are a result of a medical condition or a mental illness.Being clear prevents confusion.You could say, "Dr. Barden, I think I have been feeling depressed lately."I have missed several days of classes over the last few weeks because I haven't been eating or sleeping.
Step 10: Discuss the changes to the medication.
When discussing depression with your doctor, mention any changes to your daily medication regimen.Certain medications used to treat medical conditions can cause side effects, such as sadness or despair, when added or removed from your daily regimen.All prescription and over-the-counter drugs should be discussed with your doctor.Anticonvulsants, statins, Zovirax, and more are some of the medications that may cause depression.
Step 11: Discuss your options.
Depression can be treated with prescription medications, but they're not the only option.You may be able to explore personal exercises, such as journaling, to help with your depression.Discuss your options with your doctor so that he can give you an opinion on their effectiveness so you can make the best decision for you.
Step 12: Ask for a referral.
Your family doctor can prescribe antidepressants, but they aren't specially trained to treat mental disorders.You need to be certain that what you are experiencing is depression in order to treat it.It is possible to decide which treatment strategy is right for you with the help of an experienced mental health professional.Mental health professionals like psychiatrists have a better understanding of the drugs used to treat depression, and a therapist or psychologist may be required for therapy.
Step 13: It's time to take responsibility for following up.
The first step in recovering from depression is taken.It's important for you to follow up.You must attend a follow-up visit with your primary care doctor if they prescribed you medication.You have to schedule additional appointments with other providers if you are being referred.You spoke to your doctor about depression.Take ownership of your mental health by getting the care you need.