This question is commonly asked, just not always in those exact words. People ask things like, “Is this just stress?” or “Am I overreacting?” or “Would a professional actually consider this a diagnosis?” There’s often a nervous pause before they ask because a formal label can feel overwhelming. Most people don’t want to feel like they’re being reduced to a word on a medical chart. I understand that.
A registered psychologist can complete a thorough assessment often looking at your sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, thoughts of hopelessness, personal safety, family history, and how long you have been struggling. They use that information to decide whether what you’re experiencing is temporary or whether it meets the criteria for depression.
Some registered social workers and clinical counsellors can also access mental health concerns, although they cannot provide a formal diagnosis, they can often refer you back to a family physician or Psychiatrist who can assist with a formal diagnosis.
At Living Well Counselling Services, we have been working with people in Calgary since 2008, and one thing I have noticed is that many people wait until they’re completely worn down before asking these kinds of questions. They may still be going to work, taking care of their families and showing up for everyone else. But underneath, they feel flat, irritable, exhausted, or disconnected, or they have lost interest in things they used to enjoy.
If you are wondering whether what you are feeling is ordinary sadness, burnout, grief, anxiety mixed with low mood, or something that needs a more careful assessment, that is a valid reason to book a first conversation. Living Well offers individual counselling, couples work, and family support in person and online across Alberta, with registered psychologists and registered social workers. A free 20-minute phone consultation is available if you want to ask what the next step might look like without committing to anything yet. You may call (403) 695-7911 or visit livingwellcounselling.ca.
