Summarize this article:

If you feel that you may have depression, consult a medical professional first. Self-diagnosing a series illness like depression is not safe, since depression has serious side effects like angry outbursts, suicidal thoughts, and social isolation.  If you are under 18 or are a dependent, ask your parents or legal guardian for help finding a doctor. If you are over 18, your regular doctor will refer you to a mental health professional. Talking to your loved ones after getting an official diagnoses will be easier. Knowing how you manifest depression will help you explain your feelings to people. Symptoms change according to the individual. Unexplained sadness, a sudden lack of interest in friends or hobbies, and a lack of energy are common among people with depression. Knowing the facts about depression will help you communicate with people. Since mental illness can still be a taboo subject for many individuals, being armed with facts will help you feel more comfortable when talking to those who may be skeptical of your feelings. These are good facts to start with:  Depression is a legitimate, diagnosable disease.  Twenty-one million Americans suffer from a mood disorder like depression. Depression is very common, but it is also the most treatable of all mental illnesses.  Depression changes the way a person thinks and feels. Depression makes it difficult for people to think positively. Remind yourself that communicating about your depression can strengthen your support network, help unburden you, ease isolation, and help you get perspective. Trying to stay positive about communicating with people you know will make the process of communication easier.
Get diagnosed. Recognize your depressive symptoms. Research depression. Focus on the benefits of communication.