Who is the best person to talk to?

Question

I have been really depressed for the past few years of my life and I just feel its time to step up and get some help. Only thing is im not sure as to whom i should speak to, my doctor a therapist or whatever. and what would be the best way to go about it. any help would be much appreciated

Thnk you all for the support and comments, you have all helped in one way or another

Answer 1

How about starting with your family doctor? He can point you in the right direction. There are mental health places do go to but I really think your doctor would be the best place to start. Good luck.

Answer 2

Ive been down the depression road many times in my life, and ive found that the best people to talk to is the ones you feel most comfortable around. Because lets face it, if you dont feel comfortable around a doctor or counsiler then are you really going to say everything thats been bothering you? No. You should talk to your closest friend, parents, or spouse. Someone you feel as if you can talk to fully. Then if you both decide you need more help seek a therapist. Dont give up, life does get better. it just sometimes takes awile.

Answer 3

A pscyhologist or psychiatrist. A psychologist is someone you would go to strictly to talk through your problems and to obtain help with resolution. A psychiatrist can do the same and also has the license to medicate. Check your yellow pages for Mental Health. I'm sure they'll be a hotline you can call also to talk to a professional when you get depressed. There a lots of options, just pick what you feel most comfortable with. :)

Answer 4

A counsellor, but acknowledge yourself as being the best person who knows you! You can't do it on your own so speaking to a counsellor or therapist helps, but the answers can only come from you.

Start with a counsellor through local churches, support groups or work benefits, visit your doctor for references.

Answer 5

The reason that I am so afraid of "counselors" is that I went to many counselors, MS W's, even doctorate psychologists......for many years.....it wasn't until i went to an MD, a board certified psychiatrist that I found relief and a diagnosis....that was over 20 years ago. WHAT I HAVE LEARNED IS : START WITH THE ONLY ONES WHO HAVE THIS SPECIALTY AREA WITH PHARMACEUTICAL EXPERTISE....don't even bother to go to your internist or family practice person. My kids are physicians and they say they understand psyche drugs so little as it is really only taught to the psychiatrists in medical school and residency. Good luck....it DOESN'T HAVE TO STAY THIS WAY FOR YOU.

Answer 6

Well you can start by talking with your fam. doctor he can direct you to a therapist if he thinks you need one or he can give you medication for it also personally I think you could talk to the priest ,pastor or whatever religion you are or just pray if you as for his help with all ur heart he will answer and let me tell you I'm not religious at all just try it OK take care i hoe everything goes well

Answer 7

I suggest you start with your doctor to see if there is a physical reason underlying your depression (ie, thyroid). Then s/he will refer you to a therapist and/or psychiatrist. Your therapist will diagnose and work with you to treat your depression. Help is available and I am glad you decided to take the steps to help yourself. Therapy has helped me tremendously in my life, and medications, too. Best wishes.

Answer 8

I'd talk to a doctor and a therapist, it's just important to tell someone, anyone so you can get the help you need.

Answer 9

i'm speaking from experience. the BEST advice i can give you is-SEE A PSYCHIATRIST ASAP. after living with depression for a few years, it's time for your pain and suffering to stop. no one deserves to suffer with the hideous torments depression heaps upon the indiviual suffering with this cruel illness.
depression is treatable. a combination of talk and drug therapy WILL bring you out of your abyss. it may take 6-8 weeks for the medication to kick in, but gradually you will feel the veil of despair being lifted from your body.
my psychiatrist gave me a very important piece of advice when i went to see because i was entertaining thoughts of suicide----suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. i don't know if you're contemplating suicide, but please think about this line, memorize it, and follow it.
there are all sorts of drugs that can help your condition talking about your feelings, emotions, fears, worries, etc. is just as helpful.
I DID SURVIVE DEPRESSION and you can too. fight to live!

Answer 10

There's a position in your life that's not filled yet. It's called the "best friend". Friends are always here for you, i recommand you to talk to your best friend from the opposite sex. It worked for me, i had been depressed for over 1 year, until i met a girl who actually became my best friend in 3 days. And now everytime i feel like talking i just call her or meet her, She does the same too. She's helped me a lot. So i recommand you to give it a try. Hope you feel better. :)