How do I get diagnosed with depression while in Iraq?
I’ve been in Iraq for well over a year and while I have been pretty much out of harm’s way for the most part, it has been a rough year emotionally. I have not been diagnosed with depression before because I never saw a psychiatrist or anyone of that nature, however, I can tell you that for a good part of ten years, I’ve been having a series of depression which last for several days.
Here in Iraq, it’s been the most prominent. I would get depressed and feel empty inside and this will last for a week and then I would feel better for a week and get depressed for another week and feel better for three weeks. Usually, my depression is sudden. I would be at work and I will feel fine and then all of a sudden I would feel this uncontrollable saddness and empty feeling inside me. Almost like disappointment or like I lost something. Which would eventually turn into iritability and hostility and back to silence again.
I want to see a real psyciatrist but don’t know what to do. Thanks.
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If you are serving in the military, start with asking to see a chaplain or medical officer. The American Consulate should be able to help you find a medical professional.