How do you tell someone that you're depressed without going to the doctors?

Answer 1

I find that most people find it much easier to talk to their doctor instead of to friends and family. You are probably right to feel a bit nervous about talking to them - they are likely going to try to "make you feel better" (which never works) or to jump to the conclusion that you're going to kill yourself right now and panic.

Make an appointment with your doctor, and bring up your symptoms. There are actually several very easily treatable physical ailments which can cause temporary depression, and your doctor will check for those (low thyroid is one common one). If you need to see a specialist, your doctor can arrange for you to see someone discretely, and you don't need to discuss it with anyone else. If your doctor feels that your case is mild enough, he or she might prescribe some antidepressant medication themselves.

Answer 2

It is important to recognize 'depression' before going to doctor since it could be fatal if neglected. Behavior of the person changes dramatically. The person stays at home. He is unable to pursue studies or work. He feels lack of energy and may neglect personal hygiene like bathing, shaving. The person is usually accused as being 'lazy'. He avoids going out with friends and prefers to be alone. His irritability leads to getting angry, which can spoil relations. This can cause loss of sympathy for him. Easy crying is another feature. Helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness, feeling sad and suicidal with lack of energy are features of depression. Alteration in sleep, too less or too much and alteration in appetite are common. Catch change in behavior to discover depression.