If you think you may be experiencing some of the symptoms of depression, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about it. When booking your appointment inform your doctor you may need extra time to discuss these matters.
Your primary care provider is a good place to start. He or she can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether depression is the underlying cause. You can get a head start by creating your own list of symptoms with the
Symptom Checklist. It allows you to build a list of symptoms that you can rate based on how each impacts your ability to function in everyday life. When completed, bring it with you to your doctor to discuss your responses.
If your doctor thinks you have depression they may suggest a course of treatment or may refer you to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or a therapist. If you don't already have a primary care provider, see if your friends or family members can recommend someone.
It's a good idea to prepare for the visit. Create a list of questions you may want to ask, along with some notes about your symptoms and medical history.
One way to make the most of your visit is to create a list of questions beforehand and then check them off as you and your doctor talk.
Here are some sample questions to get you started.
After you describe your symptoms, ask:
- Do you think I have depression?
- Could my depression be triggered by some other medical condition or by medications I'm currently taking?
If your doctor diagnoses depression, ask:
- Can you treat my depression or do I need to see a specialist such as a psychiatrist or a therapist? If so, can you recommend someone?
- Do I need counseling? If so, can you recommend someone?
- What is talk therapy, and how will I know if it's working?
- Are there any self-help strategies or lifestyle changes you'd recommend?
If your doctor prescribes any medication, ask:
- What are the benefits of taking this medication?
- When will the medication start working? How will I know if it's working?
- What will it feel like to be on this medication?
- What are the side effects? Will they go away over time? What should I do if I experience them?
- How long will I need to take this medication? Will I be able to stop taking it eventually?
- Should I avoid certain things (eg, other medications, alcohol) or particular foods while I'm taking this drug?
- What if it doesn't work? Is there something else I can do?
- Will this medication take care of my depression symptoms?
- If I take this medication, will my depression ever return?
It's also a good idea to touch base with your doctor about his or her overall approach to treatment. Agree on how he or she will be monitoring your progress. Find out if it's best to follow up in person or on the phone and how often you should do so.
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