“Do I need a psychologist for my depression?”

It makes sense you would seek professional guidance at this time.

Yes, I would encourage you to get some help and go through a diagnostic assessment or intake with a mental health professional. It does not have to be a psychologist. Mental health psychotherapists and counselors of all different licenses and backgrounds can be helpful for depression: licensed independent clinical social workers (LICSW), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), and licensed professional clinical counselors (LPCC), to name a few. You could also check in with your medical doctor/primary care provider to ask about medication management for depression if you think that might help as well.

I am so sorry for what you're going through. Please do not suffer needlessly. Yes, a psychiatrist and psychologist can definitely help you. Please make an appointments with each type of doctor. A psychiatrist is someone who can prescribe medication--he/she will assess whether you're a candidate for medication intervention, and if you choose to take it, he/she will monitor you while you're on it. It is also very important that you see a psychologist or a therapist with whom you do psychotherapy--they can teach you coping skills for your depression, e.g. CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and mindfulness practices. When you start feeling better and have more energy, your therapist will also guide you to daily cardiovascular exercise and increased fish (salmon and sardines/flaxseed) in your diet. Omega 3 supplements are also a good idea. Please make an appointment today preferably with both a psychiatrist and a psychologist. If it feels too difficult to make these appointments or if you feel overcome by inertia, ask someone else, e.g. a family member or friend, make these appointments for you. And when the time comes for you to go to the appointment, even if you feel a sense of hopelessness about them helping you, take a leap of faith in that you have nothing to lose--and everything to gain--by at least going to each appointment once. I wish you the best, and trust you will feel better.

Depression is a serious condition that can worsen if not treated. I recommend seeing a psychologist for an evaluation of your current symptoms. A treatment plan that includes cognitive-behavioral strategies is an effective treatment for depression. He or she may consider adding a psychiatric medication evaluation depending on the history and severity of your symptoms. You do not have to suffer through this. The sooner you get help, the sooner you will begin to enjoy life again!

Yes - you do need to be evaluated by a Psychologist or mental health professional, and perhaps a Psychiatrist for medication. Lack of motivation and 'anhedonia' (inability to experience joy), as well as excessive sleeping and isolation are all clear signs of depression. Life need not be that unhappy for you! The good news is that that medication and psychotherapy should definitely be helpful.

Good luck.

That or a life coach

This link should help you determine the question you asked:

https://psychcentral.com/blog/5-sure-signs--a-therapist/