Depression is a mental condition that is curable. Most people around the globe suffer from mental conditions or depression, and many don’t even know that. So, to cure this, you first need to identify it. To do that, you have to go through several tests and diagnoses. Then you will be able to take MAOI treatment or the treatment that your doctor will give you.
Is There Any Test Available to Recognize Depression?
The answer is no. There are no laboratory tests to diagnose depression. But there are tests that can be used to rule it out. Now, your doctor can perform blood work to check for other conditions that could be contributing to your mood. Few medications and illnesses, for example, a viral infection, thyroid disorder, or significant hormonal changes, can cause symptoms similar to depression. However, if the doctor find-out other causes for your symptoms, they are going to refer you to a licensed mental health expert for evaluation.
Your doctor will look for specific symptoms to determine if you have depression. Expect your therapist or doctor to ask in-depth questions about your behavior, mood, and day-to-day actions. In the meantime, you will also be asked about your family’s psychological history. You may also be asked to complete a depression-rating questionnaire. This can help gauge your level of depression.
Hamilton Depression Rating Scale
The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale or HDRS is actually a survey paper that is designed to help healthcare professionals determine the sternness of depression in people who have already been diagnosed. Now, it consists of 21 questions, and each of them relates to a particular sign or symptom of depression. Besides, multiple-choice answers are given a score of zero through four. Higher total scores indicate more severe depression.
Beck Depression Inventory
The Beck Depression Inventory or the BDI is made up of 21 self-reported depression questions. Additionally, they are designed to help mental health professionals assess the symptoms, mood, and behaviors of people who are depressed. Each answer is given a score of zero through three to indicate the harshness of symptoms.
Zung Self-rating Scale for Depression
It is a screening tool that is used to help assess the level of depression in people who are depressed. This tool is a 20-question test that offers a score range from 20 to 80. Here, most depressed people score between 50 and 69. A score above that indicates severe depression.
Depression Diagnosis
To be diagnosed properly with depression, someone must have five of the following symptoms for at least two weeks:
- Sadness or depressed mood.
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping all the time.
- Lack of interest or pleasure in almost all activities, especially those that used to be pleasurable.
- Fatigue or lack of energy.
- Feelings of worthlessness and guilt.
- Recurring thoughts of death.
- Change in appetite.
- An inability to concentrate or focus.
- Agitation or feelings of moving in slow motion.
Conclusion
I hope the above tests and diagnosis will help you to find out whether you have depression or not. And, with the help of the tests, you will be able to treat the condition quickly.
