Which specialist treats depression?

Depression can affect mood, energy, sleep, concentration, appetite, and interest in daily life. A GP can check physical contributors, review medicines, discuss symptoms, and arrange a Mental Health Assessment. A psychologist or counsellor may provide talking therapy. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can assess complex symptoms, significant risk, or the need for specialist medication planning.

Feeling anxious, fatigue, unexplained weight gain, or unintentional weight loss can occur alongside depression, but each symptom has other possible causes. Erectile Dysfunction may also affect mood or relationships and deserves its own assessment.

Start with a GP Consultation and describe changes in mood, sleep, appetite, motivation, work, relationships, and self-care. Mention alcohol or drug use, previous episodes, medicines, and any thoughts of self-harm. Treatment may combine talking therapy, practical support, and medicine; the choice depends on your circumstances and preferences. Keep follow-up appointments so progress and side effects can be reviewed.

Seek immediate help if you may harm yourself or someone else, have a plan to end your life, cannot care for basic needs, or hear or see things others do not. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department, and tell a trusted person who can stay with you. Urgent assessment is also appropriate for sudden severe agitation, confusion, or loss of contact with reality.

Ask which treatment options fit your symptoms, whether a physical check is needed, how soon follow-up should happen, what side effects to watch for, and who to contact if your mood worsens between appointments.