How is Depression Diagnosed and Treated by a Licensed Provider?
A depression screening can reveal warning signs, but a formal diagnosis comes from a licensed mental health professional or doctor. Providers use criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) to diagnose, looking for symptoms like persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, and changes in sleep or appetite lasting two weeks or more. Sometimes a medical workup will be conducted to rule out organic causes, like hypothyroidism. Depression is highly treatable with many effective modalities.
Therapy and medication management are the two most common methods of treatment. Many people benefit most from a combination of both. Untreated depression can worsen over time and increase the risk of chronic illness, relationship strain, job loss, and suicidal thoughts. If you recognize these symptoms in yourself, reaching out to a therapist or primary care provider is a strong first step. Depression like other mental health conditions tends to respond better to treatment when initiated quickly.
If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health emergency: Call or text 988 (or chat at 988lifeline.org). It's free, confidential, and available 24/7.



