The first step in treating depression is recognizing that you are depressed.
The second step is seeking help. These two steps may in fact be the hardest part
of the entire treatment process. Once you seek help from a qualified health care
provider, you will find that there are numerous treatment options to help you
get back on track.
Early recognition and treatment will offer you the greatest chance of
recovery, and the earlier you seek help the greater the chance that recurrences
can be prevented.
Where to go for help
Once you decide to seek medical help, start with your primary doctor. He or
she can evaluate you to make sure that medicines or another illness are not the
source of your symptoms.
Your doctor may prescribe treatment or may refer you to a mental health care
professional who can perform a thorough assessment so that effective treatment
can be recommended.
Which health care providers treat depression?
Health care providers in many different environments and specialties are
trained to identify the presence of depression. The following are general health
care providers who are qualified to treat depression:
Physicians — Doctors are primarily skilled in medical health care but
do have some training in treating mental or psychiatric problems. Physicians
recommend specialized care for patients with more than mild symptoms of
depression.
Physician assistants — These medical health care givers are trained to
identify symptoms of depression in patients and have some training in treating
mental or psychiatric disorders under the supervision of a physician.
Nurse practitioners — These health care givers are registered nurses
(RNs) with added nursing training and some training in treating mental or
psychiatric problems.
Psychiatrists — These are medical doctors who specialize in the
diagnosis and treatment of mental or psychiatric illnesses. Psychiatrists are
licensed to prescribe drugs as part of their treatment regimen and also are
trained in psychotherapy, a form of "talking" therapy.
Psychologists — These are doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) experts in
psychology, and are trained in counseling, psychotherapy and psychological
testing. Psychologists are not licensed to prescribe medicines to treat mental
illnesses.
Social workers — These are specialists who work to assist
underprivileged and maladjusted people. Social workers are trained to recognize
depressive behavior.
Psychiatric nurse specialists — These are registered nurses (RN) who
are educated in psychiatric nursing and specialize in treating mental or
psychiatric illnesses.