young man drinking coffee looking out window

Ways to manage severe depression 

Severe depression is common and treatable — and we can help you find support. With professional treatment, including therapy, medication, or a combination of both, you may start to feel better and enjoy life more. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor or a mental health professional right away. You don’t need a referral to get mental health services. Learn how to get care and call us to get started. 

Need help now?

If you’re in crisis, please use one of the following resources:

  • If you need addiction or mental health-related crisis support, or are worried about someone else, please call or text 988 (TTY 711) or visit the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s chat for free, confidential support with a trained crisis counselor. You can also text “HOME” to the 24/7 Crisis Text Line at 741741 to talk with a crisis counselor.
  • If you think you have a medical or psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. Do not attempt to access emergency care through this website. 
 
Psychiatry

Through confidential one-on-one sessions, a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who specializes in mental health will diagnose your mental health condition and, if necessary, prescribe medication to help you feel better. 

Learn more about types of care, including psychiatry.

Individual and group therapy

Your treatment plan may include different types of therapy, which can help you explore your feelings and behaviors and take proactive steps to feel better. Your doctor can help you decide which type of therapy is best for you. In individual therapy, you’ll have one-on-one confidential sessions with a therapist. In group therapy, which is led by a mental health professional, you can connect with others who are dealing with similar health issues or wellness goals. 

Learn more about types of care and therapy. 

Peer support

You don’t have to go it alone. Online communities and in-person peer support groups offer a place to share information and connect with others who have similar interests and concerns. Here are a few:

Medication for depression
Talk to your doctor about whether medication for depression is right for you. They can help you develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs and preferences. 

      

Not sure about your self-assessment results?

If you think you’re experiencing a different level of depression than what your results show, you can retake the self-assessment as many times as you like. Or browse the other recommended care options below:

 
 
Reviewed by Lorena L. Roth, LCSW, February 2023.