It is NOT a moral weakness or mental laziness. Depression can be treated. Depression is NOT something to be ashamed of. Women suffer twice as much as men.
Untreated depression is the leading cause of suicide.
A predisposition towards depression can be hereditary. The Doctor should evaluate you, offer a diagnosis, and suggest treatment that may include anti-depressant medication, therapy or both. Anti-depressants can take up to a month to take effect. It is important to keep regular appointments with your Doctor. Regular sessions with a therapist are also useful.