Depression can change how you feel, what interests you and how manageable daily life seems. This guide helps you recognise reasons to seek support and choose a useful next step. It is an overview, not a test or a way to diagnose yourself.
If you would like to talk about your own circumstances, an individual online psychology consultation can be a starting point. A doctor’s assessment is also important when physical symptoms, major difficulties with everyday functioning or questions about treatment need attention.
What changes deserve attention?
The World Health Organization distinguishes depression from ordinary mood changes. Persistent low mood or a loss of pleasure may occur alongside changes in sleep, appetite, energy, concentration and hope for the future. These signs matter in the context of your life; they are not a checklist to score yourself against.
Consider this hypothetical example: someone continues going to work but no longer has the energy to make dinner or answer friends’ messages. Another person cries often yet has periods of relief when supported. Neither a single behaviour nor other people’s impressions settles the diagnosis. It helps to explain how the present compares with what is usual for you.
Choose a direction for support
I do not know what is happening
Note what has changed and roughly when it began. A professional conversation can help identify what needs further assessment. You do not need to find the right label before asking.
Daily life is getting harder
Arrange an assessment and describe practical difficulties, such as eating, sleeping, working or caring for yourself. Reading more information should not become a reason to keep postponing care.
I am worried about someone else
Start with something you have noticed and offer to listen. You can help them contact support without becoming their only source of care.
Could something else be contributing?
Bereavement, sustained pressure, physical illness and relationship difficulties may all belong in the picture. Being told to rest does not resolve the question of what is happening. NIMH guidance on assessment explains that some medical conditions and medicines can produce similar symptoms. Mention changes in your health, current medication and any previous periods of unusually high mood or activity. Do not change prescribed medication on your own.
Explore the question closest to yours
Making sense of how I feel
- Depression in men: when distress does not fit the familiar picture of sadness.
- Autumn low mood and seasonal depression: when you notice a pattern across seasons.
- Exhaustion when everything seems fine: finding words for depleted energy.
Understanding the circumstances
- Grief after a loss: making room for grief and support.
- Burnout at work: difficulties connected with working life.
- The anxiety guide: when low mood comes with persistent worry.
Finding a practical next step
- Helping someone with depression: what supportive involvement can look like.
- Choosing a mental health professional: understanding different roles.
- Free support in Lithuania: exploring access when cost matters.
Preparing for a first conversation
Think of one recent day and what felt hardest about it. If useful, write down how long things have felt different, what brings even brief relief and what you most need help with. This is an optional aid, not an entry requirement. It is fine to arrive without knowing where to start.
Psychological care and, where appropriate, treatment prescribed by a doctor are among the options for depression. Iveta is a licensed medical psychologist in Lithuania. Her role includes discussing psychological difficulties and appropriate next steps; she does not prescribe medication. The WHO overview of care describes why help is available. You do not have to prove that you have tried hard enough at self-care first.
Your questions
Questions you may still have
Does depression always involve crying?
No. Some people notice numbness, irritability or a loss of interest more than sadness. What matters is the overall change, how long it has lasted and its effect on life, rather than whether you look upset.
Can I ask for help if I am still working?
Yes. Keeping up with responsibilities does not show how much effort they take. Describe what happens outside work too, including whether you have energy left for meals, relationships or basic care.
Should I wait two weeks before seeking support?
No. Two weeks is part of how a depressive episode is described, not a rule about when you are allowed help. Seek help sooner if your condition is worsening, and urgently if you feel unsafe or have suicidal thoughts.
Does exhaustion mean I have depression?
Not necessarily. Fatigue has several possible causes. New or persistent tiredness, especially alongside other physical changes, deserves a conversation with a doctor. Medical and psychological assessments can complement one another.
Will a consultation mean I must take medication?
No. Support is chosen individually. A medical psychologist does not prescribe medication; a doctor assesses whether it is appropriate. A first conversation can help clarify what kind of support is needed.
What can I say when I cannot explain how I feel?
A simple starting point is: “Daily life has become difficult and I would like to talk about it.” You do not need a diagnosis or a polished account. If you need urgent help, do not wait for a routine appointment.
Sources and further information
- WHO. Depressive disorder (depression)Symptoms and patterns; diagnosis and treatment; immediate-risk escalation. Updated 11 September 2026. Checked 29 September 2026.
- NIMH. DepressionHow is depression diagnosed? Physical and medication-related alternatives; prior mood history; individual treatment planning. Revised 2024. Checked 29 September 2026.
This guide provides general information and does not replace an individual assessment. Illustrations do not depict actual clients.