More often than not, depression is diagnosed through intervention. However, sometimes, you are the first to realize that you need help. How do you go about asking for it? How do you find someone who can direct you to the best way to find it? Your best friend, although someone you would trust with anything, may not be the best person to approach first, especially if they do not know anything about these diseases.

If you are identifying as depressed on your own, then you should first find someone with some knowledge on the subject. It might be a friend who suffers from the condition, or it might be your doctor. Ask them how you should proceed. They will be able to refer you to a therapist who will either agree to treat you or help you find someone who is better suited to your condition. Remember, not all therapists deal with depression, some deal with addiction, others with family counseling. So just because a therapist refers you elsewhere is not a judgment of your condition. If you are getting treated through your insurance, they might try to find you a therapist who works with your insurance.

Looking for your support system is not hard to do. Start with your best friends, and work out from there. You will find that you will have a large support circle so take advantage of it. It is best not to stress out any one friend asking for help too often. Rely on different friends, because that way you won