Therapy: Who Can I Turn to for Help?
The following types of providers are trained to help people with depression:
Provider = A professional who can help diagnose and treat depression
Psychologist- A psychologist has received training in psychology, and he or she has either a master's degree or a doctorate. Psychologists are experienced in diagnosing and treating mental and emotional illnesses.
Clinical Social Worker- A clinical social worker has master's level training in counseling. He or she can help individuals and their families with mental health issues such as depression, as well as serious illness, disability, and substance abuse. Social workers can also help people get the support services they need in the community.
Counselor- A counselor has received training in helping people recover from mental and emotional illnesses like depression. A counselor may have a bachelor's and/or a master's degree in an area such as psychology, nursing, or rehabilitation.
Psychiatrist- A psychiatrist has been through medical school, so he or she is a medical doctor. Psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat illnesses like depression. Psychiatrists can also prescribe medication.
Primary Care Provider- A primary care provider is the person you see for all your general health questions, from colds to cancer screenings. Primary care providers have had some training in treating depression, and they can help to refer you to someone who specializes in the treatment of depression. Your primary care provider can also prescribe medication.
Why You Should Tell Your Doctor if You Think You May Have Depression
Sometimes it's important to talk with your physician if you're really feeling down. Here's why:
You deserve to be well
•If you are depressed, treating your depression will help you manage any other physical problems (like diabetes and heart disease) that you may have. Beating depression will help you think more clearly, so you'll be less likely to forget to take your medicine.
•Treating your depression may make you more comfortable in general.
•Treating your depression will make you less likely to get a medical illness.
You deserve to stay connected
•Your family and friends miss you!
You deserve to feel happy
•Feeling blue for weeks on end is not the way life is meant to be. You can have a happier life!
•Life can be more satisfying when you're not feeling down.
Next: Finding a Provider
