Symptoms, Addendum 1

Mostly it seems to me I get depressed (and struggle with other symptoms) because I am worthless.

The common thought seems to be, however, that people often feel worthless as a symptom of depression.

I suppose it is possible I have "depression" and feeling worthless is a symptom of that.

Strictly speaking, however, I know depression is a *symptom,* so saying "I have depression" is as diagnostically useless as saying "I have eczema" - it's accurate and can be treated, but gives no insight to the underlying cause of the condition. Without addressing the cause, one will end up treating the symptoms forever.