DEPRESSION TEST
Depression is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks and handles day-to-day activities, such as sleeping, eating or working.
To be diagnosed with depression, the following symptoms must be present for at least two weeks:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
- Fatigue, lack of energy, or feeling slowed down
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Difficulty sleeping, waking too early in the morning, or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
- Physical aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause that do not go away with treatment
- Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts
Did you know...
According to the American Psychiatric Association:
- Nearly 29% of adults have been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives.
- 18% of adults are currently experiencing depression.
Please note: This quiz is meant to enhance your self-understanding and sense of well-being. It is not meant as a replacement for a clinical diagnosis or treatment, but instead spark some ideas for you to discuss with your provider in your upcoming sessions.
Treatment options for Depression
If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of depression, it’s important to reach out to a mental health professional. Depression, even the most severe cases, can be treated. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it is. Depression is usually treated with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
- Psychotherapy – Also known as therapy, can help people with depression by teaching them new ways of thinking and behaving and helping them change their habits that contribute to depression. Evidence-based approaches to treating depression include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) – check out our services page to learn more about these therapies.
- Medication – Medication can help to reduce symptoms of depression by correcting the chemical imbalance that causes depression. Antidepressants are commonly used to treat depression, but you may need to try several different antidepressants before findings the one that improves your symptoms and has manageable side effects. Visit our medication management page to learn more about this treatment and our philosophy of care to learn about how the steps we take to ensure a proper screening, assessment and whole body treatment plan.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
In life-threatening situations, call 911.
For effective and comprehensive psychological and psychiatric care, book an appointment now.
