How does a doctor find the underlying problem of depression?

Question

I think I may be depressed but I really can't see how a doctor can find the underlying problem. Yes, I probably talk to them alot but I can't think of anything that would lead them to an answer. I've been cutting myself but I don't what to do now. Please help.

Answer 1

I think you need to find a doctor who has helped others who have your particular problem. Even though everyone is different, this situation seems to have a few common threads. Through talking with you, this doctor can see if you have some of these characteristics, and will be able to find out the root causes. I knew a girl who did this to herself over 30 years ago, so this is not a new thing. I'd rather that you got to the root of this problem than to just be put on medication. Being medicated doesn't really help you deal with why you cut yourself. I happen to know that the human spirit is very strong, and very able to overcome any problem, no matter how big. It's just a matter of finding the right key, giving you an understanding that you never thought of before, and causing you to finally "get it". I was depressed for over 5 years, and never really knew I was depressed until I moved to a different house. With all the busyness of moving & cleaning, I found a strength I didn't know I had. I began looking forward to my new surroundings, and feeling happier. It was then that I realized I had been slowly killing myself, sitting in front of the tube at all hours of the day & night. The move meant I no longer had cable TV, so I had to find other things to do. It opened my eyes to what I was doing to myself. It's quite possible that you can find your own way out of what's causing you to do this to yourself. But, talking to someone who has helped others through this situation might hurry the process along, and give you peace sooner. <*)))><

Answer 2

When ever I go to the Dr I write down exactly what Im feeling. Be honest. I just learned that when I get stuck on suicide or cutting my wrist This is actually called disasociation, I was perscribed medication that has really helped in the last 3 days. I also have manic depression and ptsd. So I truly I can understand. My heart and prayers go out to you. Please before you cut yourself call suicide hot line. 1(800) SUICIDE you may be cutting for other reasons, but I have a friend who died that way. I do'nt want that to happen to you! look in the phone book under mental health, get their support hot line, also make an appointment with a .phyciatrist you might have a chemical imbalance. You are not alone. There is help and compassion . my e mail is [e-mail] I am a mom of children 20 22 24. Call your pastor and have him pray for you. If you do'nt have one yet look under churches in the phone book, or on the computer under JESUS or Calvary Chapel. Thats my church you'res too!! Depression can also be situational, but it would be nice to find out for sure. It may be a little work on your part but it will be worth it, you know yourself better than any body. But it is ok to ask for help. You need support. I PRAY IN JESUS NAME YOU WILL FIND THE HELP AND SUPPORT YOU NEED. GOD BLESS YOU. I'm just sharing what has worked for me. GOOD LUCK . I HOPE YOU FEEL BETTER SOON.

Answer 3

If you go to see the doctor he/she will ask you various questions to see which type of medication you require, if any. If the doctor sees you need help other than or as well as medication he/she will make an appointment for you to see the local physiologist this is the person who will find your underlying problem given time.

Answer 4

My problems manifest themselves as anxiety, but stem from bullying I suffered at secondary school. I got so bad I self harmed too, but from my experience things can get a whole lot better.



A doctor won't be able to get to the bottom of your problems, because they are not specialised in this area. They can prescribe drugs for depression, but can't make a formal diagnosis of depression. It sounds like you definitely need a referral to a psychiatrist/psychologist/counsellor at your local mental health centre. You go to your doctor to ask for this.



Sometimes you are referred straight to a counsellor. Depending on your problems you maybe first referred to a mental health specialist/psychiatrist (don't let that word put you off). Then you will be assessed (you will be asked lots of questions and given piles of forms to fill in!!!) and they make a diagnosis from information given. They will then refer you to the relavent counsellor who will go into the origins of your problems, and the problems you have developed as a result and then tailor the counselling to your needs. Most importantly they will help you to make changes in the present so that you can overcome your problems.



Good luck!

Answer 5

Adrian J In your heart you probably know the underlying problem, if you can admit it to yourself your on the first step of the ladder, please don't cut yourself your precious and deserve a good life, you could go to church there are people there that you could talk to in confidence, believe in yourself Adrian you can do this. Good Luck.

Answer 6

A GP doesn't have the time, money or training to find the underlying problem.



They offer you drugs and refer you to a counsellor who is trained to either find the cause and help you deal with it, or help you to say 'Sod the cause' and just move on.

Answer 7

Blood tests may help-if youre unhappy with your GP,change to another.Also see an alternative doctor,who may have some alternative avenues to explore,and treatments to offer.

Answer 8

if u need help. which u clearly do, ask 4 help.

ask the Doc 2 refer u on 2 a qualified psychologist 2 work-out why ur self-harming.

knowing u need help is a good start.

Answer 9

I would strongly recommend hypnotherapy.



Go along to your local complimentary medicine centre where they'll be able to offer you this.



You can find your local centre in a local business directory or through google.



All the best

Answer 10

You may want to read this article http://nitzitry.notlong.com/ i found, will be useful also has info on different treatments and should help with your depression. And some natural remedies which will help cheer people up.

Answer 11

Adrian,

Please don't take this to offense, but cutting is a serious and hurtful thing to do to your body and well being....consult a psychiatrist...one you can trust....talk to trusted friends, pastors, anyone....but stop this process while you are still ahead....