I go to my family doctor for my meds because I can't afford to go to a psychiatrist. If I could afford it I would prefer to because they specialize in psychiatric conditions.

@A MyDepressionTeam Member (I'm not in Canada but....) Your regular doctor(pcp) should refer you to a psychiatrist. Unless you want her to prescribe medication for you. Regular doctors can prescribe antidepressants BUT it's not something that they do on a consistent basis. The psychiatrist is more familiar with all drugs for anxiety and depression. He/she has a better read of the patient as well. I hope this helps. If not wait til you hear from someone in Canada. Good luck!

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The other thing I would say is that most psychiatrists are a bit unnerving. Can be. They like to listen and ask questions. And be distant. I'm basing this on nearly 40 years experience. Almost like any other specialist....can be distant. Don't let that throw you. Hope this helps!

Hello Lauraliz, if you have been to your doctor for quite a while, then they will pick up how you are feeling and then ask a few questions, but before you go write down on some paper what's going on and how you are feeling, try and do this in point form, because if it's a letter they may get lost on the important issues.
In Australia the doctor can put us on a mental health plan, which means that Medicare pay for 20 visits to see a psych per year, I know it's different in the UK not sure about Canada.

Medication is one option. Counseling is another option, or self-directed strategies such as diary writing or bright-light therapy may be appropriate. Find what works for you and stick to it.