I am now 20 years of age. Ever since I was 14 I've experienced what I call extreme lows in my moods. These come and go. Sometimes I can have up to six good months, but they are followed by several months of feeling very down. During this time I lack motivation, am very socially withdrawn, prone to mood swings and constantly think about the pointlessness of my life. I once saw a doctor about this, hoping I might get a referral to speak with a psychologist, but she told me that women are emotional and I just need to give myself a break. My boyfriend tells me that I shouldn't feel this way. Now that I am studying at university it's affecting me even more. I find myself caring less and less about my assignments, my friends, and my job. Nothing seems to make me happy. Do I suffer from depression?