Talking To Your Doctor About Your Depression
If you are feeling very depressed, it is only natural that you would seek out a doctor. Doctors are often the first person that people talk about their depression with, and they usually give out the diagnosis of depression itself. Here are some things to keep in mind when you decided to see your doctor for depression.
If you're going in to see a doctor about how you're feeling, you likely already know you have depression. You might have some questions about what you should do next, so write down questions to ask the doctor. When people are talking to a doctor, sometimes they lose track of everything they wanted to say or ask. Don't let that be you. Simply write down your symptoms and other information that may be pertinent.
Be honest with your doctor. When your doctor asks you questions about what you're going through, keep in mind that he is trying to diagnose your illness properly. Make every effort to be honest and forthcoming with information that can help your doctor to treat you correctly.
Inquire whether you have a vitamin deficiency. Your doctor should do a number of tests to make sure that you are not having a physical problem that is causing you to feel poorly. Don't accept a diagnosis and medication unless you feel comfortable that your doctor has explored every medical reason you may be feeling the way you are feeling.
Ask questions if you want, and don't be afraid to disagree. Your doctor may want to put you on an anti-depressant medication, for example. You may not want to take any medications, so make sure to tell him that, and talk about other options available.
Attempt to get a referral to a therapist or psychologist. This can be really helpful, and save you a lot of time looking for therapists. If your doctor can recommend someone, chances are that the person he recommends is of high quality. And if you do end up seeing a psychologist or therapist, make sure that he and your doctor know about what the other is doing and prescribing for you.
Tell your doctor before quitting a medication "cold turkey". That can lead to a trip to the hospital, among other things. Your medications are important, and if your doctor has prescribed them, you must take them. Just make sure that if you want to stop taking them, you talk to your doctor before just stopping altogether.
If you find that you and your doctor are not getting along, don't be ashamed to seek a second opinion or a second doctor altogether. You can see any doctor you choose, and there is no reason to add to your stress if you feel you aren't being heard.
Depression is not a wonderful thing to deal with. Making the effort to tell your doctor about your depression is a sign of strength. Your doctor should be committed to helping you, and if you use the information above, you should be able to get the kind of care you deserve.
