When to See the Doctor

If you are having thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately. Call your doctor, health care provider, family member, friend or counselor. Suicide hotlines are also set up to help you. Remember that you are not alone and there are people who can help you. If your plans are about to happen, dial 911!

If you have symptoms of depression, see your family doctor or primary care doctor. Symptoms include:

• Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells.
• Significant changes in appetite.
• Sleeping too much or not being able to sleep.
• Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety.
• Pessimism, indifference.
• Loss of energy, persistent lethargy.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness.
• Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness.
• Inability to take pleasure in former interests.
• Withdrawal from friends and family.
• Unexplained aches and pains.
• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

Sometimes, someone with undiagnosed depression may see the doctor for physical symptoms such as insomnia and lack of energy. An exam may turn up nothing. As a result, the doctor may overlook the possibility of depression. Sometimes people who are depressed believe their problem means they are weak or have a character flaw. They feel embarrassed and may not look for help for their depression. Depression is a serious illness, which affects your entire quality of life. It is important if you think you or a loved one has a form of depression, that you see a doctor immediately. In some cases, depression may lead to suicide.

More on Depression

In the Encyclopedia:

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.