Frequently asked questions
Last updated · Site information
Is Depression Steps a medical service?
No. It is an educational website with private planning and supportive activity tools. It does not diagnose, treat or monitor anyone, and it is not an emergency service.
What should I do if I need help right now?
In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Our urgent help page lists more verified options, including services in Canada, the UK and Ireland, and Australia.
Are the guides medically reviewed?
Not yet. Every guide shows its real review status. We only show "Medically reviewed" when a named, qualified professional has reviewed that exact version.
Who writes the content?
Guides are bylined to the Depression Steps Editorial Team. Current drafts were prepared with AI writing assistance from official public-health sources and are awaiting human editorial and clinical review.
Do the tools send what I type anywhere?
No. The tools run in your browser. Nothing you type is sent to our servers, advertisers or analytics.
Does the site save my information?
Not unless you choose to. The Mood Journal and Small Steps Garden can save to this browser on this device if you turn saving on. You can export or delete that data at any time.
Can an online quiz tell me if I have depression?
No. Only a qualified professional can diagnose depression after a proper conversation. We deliberately do not offer a depression test or score. Our Appointment Preparation Builder helps you prepare for that conversation instead.
What is Find My Next Step?
A private planner: you choose what you want to do — understand what you are feeling, reach a professional, prepare to discuss treatment, or support someone — and leave with questions, resources and one practical action you choose.
Is the Small Steps Garden a treatment?
No. It is a calm, optional game inspired by a general idea used in some therapies. It has not been clinically tested. It rewards taking part, never reported mood, and it never punishes rest or absence.
Does the site show providers near me?
No. We do not list or rate local providers or facilities. Our guides explain how to search official directories such as FindTreatment.gov and your insurer's list.
Is the site available in other languages?
Key pages and all tools are available in English, Spanish and Arabic. Guides are currently in English; you can opt in to an automatic Google translation, which is not reviewed and is not offered on tools or urgent help.
Are there ads?
Not at present. If advertising is enabled, it will appear only on eligible editorial guides — never on tools, the garden or urgent help — and your health information will never be used for ads.