When you or your loved one experiences symptoms of depression, it's helpful to know what treatment options are available and what to expect from them.
Start with Your Confidant Provider
Your Confidant doctor will first rule out an underlying health condition that might be causing your depression, such as a hormone imbalance or chronic pain.
Next, a psychiatric evaluation will be conducted where your care provider asks questions about your symptoms, thoughts, behavior patterns, and feelings. A medical professional will use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to determine if you meet the criteria for clinical depression.
According to the DSM-5, five depressive symptoms from a list of nine must be present nearly every day for two weeks for a diagnosis. For example:
- Depressed most of the day
- A significant change in weight
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness