In some cases you may also be asked to complete a short questionnaire asking you about these symptoms. The doctor will also conduct a physical examination and in some cases arrange for blood samples and other investigations to be done in order to exclude other causes for the symptoms. For example some symptoms of depression can also be caused by disorders such as anaemia or lack of thyroid hormone. Some episodes of depression may resolve spontaneously without treatment. However, this is not always the case and treatment is often required.
Treatment can shorten both the duration and the severity of a depressive episode.
Most people only get a single or a few depressive periods during their lives. Treatment of depression needs to be tailored to the individual. Most episodes of depression are managed in primary care or by psychiatrists in out-patient clinics. People with more severe depression sometimes need to be admitted to hospital for inpatient treatment. Research also suggests that St John's Wort and problem solving therapy are effective treatments for some people with mild or moderate depression.