[shortandcute]

My doc has put me on prozac. but i feel she doesn't take me seriously. I want to be tested for clinically depression--should I just come out and ask to be tested?

[Memoir24]

Have you just started seeking professional help? And is this your first anti-depressant?

Anti-depressants take weeks to feel the effects so you might feel improvement that will allay your insecurities. But when you say you don't feel like your being taken seriously a red flag goes up in my mind.

If you want further examination, please don't hesitate to ask your doctor.

Always remember you are your number one priority and a self-advocate. If something is wrong, listen to your instincts and emotions. I think being direct with your doctor can help you feel control and give you more answers. Presently patients are intelligent and have more medical smarts than ever, so don't be embarrassed or hesitant taking a lead in your care plan or assesment.

I think you are brave for positing your concerns. I believe in empowerment. Ultimately I would say yes, ask your doctor and always verbalize your concerns. Good luck Shortandcute! Never lose hope.

[DrFrank]

Most medical doctors do not know how to treat depression other than with the use of drugs that have severe side-effects.You should consult with a psychologist to see if you can eliminate both depression and drugs.

I would imagine that the doctor DOES believe that you are clinically depressed for them to prescribe an antidepressant. I don't know where you are from but, in the UK, GPs are told to prescribe anti-depressants only for those with moderate to severe depression (that's not to say that those with mild depression don't get anti-depressants sometimes because GPs can't be bothered/or don't know that 'watchful waiting'/counselling is better).

Personally I would not take any medication that I didn't know what it was being prescribed for, common side effects and how long I might be expected to take it for. It is your body shortandcute - you are allowed to ask questions about your health! Also I can not recommend therapy highly enough for depression.

All the best,

*Willow*

[AniManiac]

There are no truly certain tests for depression, like a blood test or something along those lines. The best we can get is evaluative criteria since it's a subjective experience, and like a lot of mental illnesses, doctors can only rely on what you report.

Definitely speak up with the docs about why they believe you need an antidepressant, though. You should be a part of the conversation.

[(JD)]

Hmm If after speaking with your doctor he/she prescribed prozac, I think your doctor heard you loud and clear, and not only took you seriously, but acted on it!

[venusss]

I kinda don't understand the OP.... there are no tests for depression, sorry. It's all self-evalution and bunch of theories of what are the causes of this pest.

Did you want something more than to have a AD thrown on you, like coping skills to learn and some plan on how to deal with it?