Hi gymgirl,
Thank you for posting here. You shouldn't think this is a big joke as like you said, this is something that has had a major impact on your life and causing a lot of distress. Most health professionals these days do not treat it trivially either and are aware of how common and how crippling depression is. The best way to start the conversation is just as you have here, start by talking about how your life has changed and how your feelings have been the last three to four month. Most doctors are trained to ask the right questions about depression and other mood disorders once they are made aware of the symptoms.
Here are some good resources to look at before your appointment in terms of what to expect and what questions to ask. I hope they help.
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/find-a-mental-health-professional
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/personal-best/pillar/supporting-yourself/questions-to-ask-your-health-...
Keep us updated on how you go and I hope your appointment goes ok. 💙
Bob
