Do I need to see a mental health provider?

Everyone experiences sadness or low mood from time to time, however these feelings typically come and go. In contrast, those suffering from depression tend to feel a pervasive sense of sadness or numbness for extended periods of time, typically longer than 2 weeks. Other symptoms may include fatigue, lack of interest in activities that would normally bring joy, a feeling of hollowness/emptiness, altered sleep (either more or less than usual), irritability, excessive guilt, poor appetite, hopelessness, and in severe cases, suicidal thoughts. If you identify with any of those symptoms, or feel that your mental state is interfering with your life, please see a mental health provider.

If you find yourself having suicidal thoughts, please call the number at the top of this page.

If you are not quite sure if you should see someone, but find yourself struggling with depressed mood, anxiety, or other distressing thoughts that you wish to alleviate, it may still be useful to seek out help. Even if you don’t meet criteria for a formal diagnosis of Major Depression, you can still benefit from working with a therapist.

Should I find a therapist, a psychologist, a psychiatrist or all of the above?

It can be very confusing to figure out which provider to see when struggling with depression or other mental illnesses. You may not be sure if you really have a diagnosable mental illness. The first step is often talking to your primary care provider to determine if medication, therapy, or a combination of both is right for you.

“Therapist” is a broad term that encompasses many mental health professionals. Licensed clinical social workers, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, and Psychiatric PAs/NPs can all provide therapy. However, only Psychiatrists (MD, DO), or Psychiatrist PAs or NPs can prescribe medications.

Psychologists may hold the degrees of PhD or PsyD.

Licensed clinical social workers may hold the degrees of LCSW, LMSW, LICSW, LMHS, MHC, LMFT, or MFT.

To find a therapist or Psychiatrist, visit: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

• You can sort by provider gender and age, insurance accepted, price, types of therapy, and more

• You can also search for nearby treatment centers and support groups

To get referred to the appropriate treatment center for mental health and substance use: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

To find your nearest treatment center: https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/