Depression is a serious mental health condition that can have far-reaching effects on your life. It’s important to get help when you need it. But who is best suited to help? A therapist—such as a psychologist or social worker—can help you address and manage your feelings. A psychiatrist can provide medication to help alleviate symptoms of depression. Psychiatrists can also consider other medical issues that might be causing depressive symptoms. So, if you’re thinking of seeing a psychiatrist for depression, what should you know?
What does a psychiatrist do?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health issues, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. They can identify and diagnose mental illnesses, order tests, and prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms of depression. They may also recommend therapeutic interventions, such as talk therapy, to help you develop healthy coping skills and work through related issues.
Finding a psychiatrist
When seeking treatment for depression from a psychiatrist, there are some things to consider before making an appointment. It’s important to find the right clinician for your needs. You can use a search engine to conduct an online search for psychiatrists in your area by typing “psychiatrists Fort Worth,” for example. You can also ask your general practitioner or therapist for a recommendation or go through your insurance provider to find someone in-network.
To research a particular psychiatrist, browse their online profiles to see if they specialize in treating depression. It may also be beneficial to read reviews online.
At the appointment
When you make an appointment, be prepared to discuss your symptoms and any medications you are currently taking. It is also a good idea to bring a list of questions or concerns with you so that you can address them during the visit. During your initial appointment, your psychiatrist will likely conduct a mental health assessment and review your medical history. They may ask about lifestyle habits, such as exercise, sleep patterns, drug use, and diet. This information helps them determine what type of treatment might be most effective for you.
Once the assessment is completed, your psychiatrist may discuss treatment options with you and develop a plan of care tailored to your specific needs. This can include medication, psychotherapy, or both. Your psychiatrist may also provide advice on lifestyle changes and other strategies to help manage your depression.
What to know about depression
If you’re still hesitant about reaching out to a psychiatrist, here are a few things to consider about depression.
Depression doesn’t have to be situational, but it can be
There isn’t always a reason for feeling depressed, but if you think an event or experience triggered your depression, it’s important to share this with your psychiatrist. This can help them provide the best care for you.
Depression isn’t just feeling sad
In fact, you might not even feel sad at all. You might feel apathetic or just not enjoy things you enjoyed previously. Depression can have include other symptoms, such as changes in appetite, sleep patterns, energy levels, and concentration.
Medication for depression isn’t just antidepressants
Your psychiatrist may suggest medication, such as an antidepressant, as a treatment option. However, your psychiatrist may determine that other medications are a better course of treatment. Your psychiatrist can also prescribe medications for other conditions, such as anxiety, which may be contributing to or causing your depression.
Reaching out and getting help
If you are considering seeing a psychiatrist for depression, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many people find relief from their symptoms with the proper treatment. Taking the first step and making an appointment can be difficult, but it will put you on the path to feeling better.
