Why Do I Need a Depression Diagnosis?
If you believe that you suffer from depression, you may wonder whether you really need an official diagnosis. While we understand not wanting to put a label on your experience, there are many proven benefits of mental health diagnoses. They include:
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Getting Accurate Treatment
Without a depression diagnosis, it is difficult to get accurate and effective treatment for your condition. And research shows that mental health treatments do work. Your depression cannot be “cured.” But you can learn to manage symptoms and overcome challenges through treatment.
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Overcoming the Unknown
Often, the unknown is much more difficult to cope with than the known. If you are nervous or scared of putting a name to your condition, know that getting a diagnosis will put a large share of your anxieties to bed. It’s better to move forward with the full picture than to continue living with the stress of what could be.
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Accessing Available Resources and Services
There are many resources available to people suffering from depression. Without a diagnosis, you may find it difficult to access these resources and services. For example, sufferers of depression are sometimes eligible for financial assistance programs or savings cards.
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Joining a Community
With a diagnosis of depression, you will suddenly find yourself a part of a large community. If you don’t know anyone openly battling depression, there are countless online support groups that you may find helpful. Plus, organizations like the Anxiety and Depression Association of America or the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance exist to help you feel less alone. Through local or online gatherings, you can find interpersonal support on your journey.
Therapists
These are our therapists who are experienced in working with Depression.
