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How is Depression Diagnosed


12 years ago 0 71 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
I think it is important to consider that depression may be a symptom of something else, rather than a condition of it's own. While manner people are depressed due to, for example, a chemical imbalance, it is worth considering other causes. For example, in two weeks I will be seeing a psychiatrist to see if I have ADHD. It feels strange to think that at age 51 I may have what I considered to be a childhood condition, but there you go. Not only would ADHD explain a LOT about my education and work history, apparently undiagnosed ADHD is a fairly common cause of depression.
12 years ago 0 11210 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Members,

If you think you have depression, take the Depression Test on the Depression Center and share your Final Report with your family doctor. It is important to remember that the symptoms of depression can mimic a variety of medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and some viral infections. In addition, the side effects of some medications can also mimic the symptoms of depression. So, the first thing you should do is have a full medical evaluation.

Although it's important for you and your doctor talk about your physical symptoms, you should not overlook other aspects of your depression. Before your appointment with your doctor you may want to re-read your results from the Depression Test and tell your doctor anything else that you notice about your mood and other symptoms.
Information on both the physical and emotional aspects of depression can be very useful to your doctor when she/he makes a diagnosis. Depression is usually experienced as feelings of intense sadness, even hopelessness. Depression is often accompanied by an impaired ability to think, concentrate, and enjoy the normal pleasures of life. Your doctor will also want to know if you are eating more or less, or sleeping more or less than usual and if you are feeling more or less energetic than usual. If you have symptoms of bipolar disorder, make sure you tell your doctor about those symptoms too.

Many people with depression also suffer from anxiety, so be sure to make your doctor aware of these symptoms as well. If you have been drinking or using drugs to try to control your symptoms, let your doctor know about that too.

Remember: Doctor's are sworn to confidentiality, so you should feel safe when opening up to your doctor.

Once you have been properly diagnosed, your doctor - perhaps in consultation with a mental health specialist - can help you determine which treatment is best for you.

Do you suspect you are depressed? Are you currently looking to be diagnosed?
 
Ashley, Health Educator

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