If you find yourself experiencing symptoms of depression for more than two weeks, or if you are having thoughts of suicide, you should seek help. Asking for help can be a difficult step to take. If you’re not ready to reach out to a mental health professional, you can start by making an appointment with your primary care provider.Your healthcare provider will look for symptoms that can identify depression, ask about any events that may have contributed to the symptoms and look at any family history of depression. No tests are available to diagnose depression, but your doctor may order lab tests to look for hormone issues or other physical problems that can cause the same symptoms.Evans-McCarthy found seeking help and accepting treatment to be helpful in managing her depression. “Medication is one of the tools in my toolbox,” she said. “You need other tools — therapy, friends, exercise, hobbies — to use when you need them.”If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis, please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.ResourcesAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineNational Institute for Mental Health Depression Overview Page