The first step to diagnosis and treatment is talking with your doctor about any depressive symptoms you have been experiencing. Your doctor may recommend a physical checkup to rule out any underlying physical cause for your symptoms. A variety of healthcare professionals can diagnose clinical depression and provide treatment.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in treating mental illnesses.
Psychologists are licensed mental health professionals, most of whom have doctoral-level training. They specialize in helping people understand and make positive changes in their behavior and thinking. Psychologists can provide psychotherapy, but can not prescribe medication. They often collaborate with physicians to ensure patients are placed on a treatment plan that is right for them. Family physicians can, however, refer patients to mental health professionals who can provide medication and psychotherapy.