Unveiling the Depression Test: How Doctors Effectively Diagnose Clinical Depression (3 of 4)

How Can Symptoms of Depression Ultimately Lead to a Depression Diagnosis?

For a diagnosis of major depression, you need at least five of the above symptoms, including one of the first two, experienced almost daily for at least two weeks. Depression’s impact can span weeks to years, affecting personality, social connections, and work performance, potentially leading to a lack of understanding from others. Some symptoms can be severely disabling, hindering basic functions like eating and personal hygiene. Depression episodes may be one-time occurrences or recurrent, chronic, or enduring, often triggered by life events or seemingly random. Additionally, clinical depression frequently coexists with other medical conditions like heart disease or cancer, exacerbating the prognosis for these illnesses.

What Patients Can Do To Help Doctors Determine Whether They Are Clinically Depressed

For the depression test to work as it should, it requires some effort from you. Prior to your appointment, compile your depression concerns and specific symptoms, along with obtaining a comprehensive family history from relatives. This information aids in an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. Make note of:

• Mental and physical health concerns
• Observed symptoms
• Atypical behaviors
• Previous illnesses
• Family’s depression history
• Current and past medications (prescription and over-the-counter)
• Unusual medication side effects
• Dietary supplements
• Lifestyle (exercise, diet, smoking, alcohol, drugs)
• Sleep patterns
• Stress sources (marriage, work, social)
• Questions about depression and medications