Finding the right doctor can seem overwhelming during your time of suffering. But a good doctor can be a life saver, literally. If you are not able to look for one, ask a friend or family member to make the calls and appointments and go with you to the appointments. Be sure to ask the right questions listed below. If you are open, sincere, and honest about your feelings you will find someone who will listen to you, allow you to cry, won't be condescending, and will prescribe the right treatment for your needs. Print out this page and use it as a guide to finding a good doctor to treat your depression. It is also important that you have a family member or friend monitor your treatment. This will enable you to quickly find the treatment that works for you and establish a support link in case you experience strong side effects or reactions to the medication. If you feel suicidal or react strongly to any prescribed drug, call a family member, tell them exactly what you are experiencing and have them call your doctor immediately, do not wait!

Just as important, but more difficult to treat are environmental, and social factors. These factors can also cause stress which when untreated lead to a mental breakdown. If you are living in a stressful environment, or in a stressful relationship or work environment, and feel hopeless you need help. Stress limits your rational thinking and clouds your mind with insecurities, anxiety and overwhelming negative feelings. This makes it almost impossible to concentrate and focus on fixing the situation. Stress has a tremendous negative impact on your body and emotions. Again you need to seek treatment from a psychologist with whom you feel comfortable.

1. What is your experience treating people suffering from depression?
2. Are you currently successfully treating any patients that suffer from depression?
3. Could you describe what the disease is and how it can be treated?
4. Can you tell me about the side effects and how long they last? What if I get pregnant?
5. Can you offer any other treatments for this disease or referrals to other agencies?
6. Have you ever suffered from depression?
7. How long will it take for me to recover?
8. How much will the anti-depressant treatment cost and is there help for low-income people?
9. What type of depression do I have and why?
10. What can I do if the anti-depressant treatment doesn't work?
11. Have other people experienced any strong side effects from this treatment?

Send us feedback or contact us.

[Start Page] [Steps] [Letters] [Resources]