Depression Screening: Online And In-Person
Depression is a common mental illness. Most of us know someone who has been affected by depression, whether it is a friend, co-worker, or family member. Perhaps you have even experienced symptoms of depression and wonder if you qualify for a diagnosis.
Depression is characterized by persistent sadness, guilt, difficulty making decisions, and sleepless nights. It can also result in increasing amounts of time spent in bed, away from people, and avoiding life’s responsibilities. If you have experienced symptoms like these, you might be unsure whether the sadness you feel is depression or one of life’s regular ups and downs. In this case, an online or in-person depression screening can help you determine the seriousness of your symptoms and find an effective remedy.
About depression screening
Suppose you are worried that you or someone you know is experiencing depression. In that case, both online and in-person depression screening methods can help you get on the right track toward receiving a diagnosis and finding a treatment that works best for you.
Many healthcare professionals use the PRIME-MD instrument for diagnosing mental illness. In addition, you can find the depression module, PHQ-9, which scores you on the DSM IV depression criteria at Patient.info.
This tool is used for mental health screening and to monitor the severity of patients' depression and their response to treatment.
When screening for depression, healthcare professionals look for a depressed mood and a loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities lasting for at least two weeks. In addition, several other symptoms must be present for a diagnosis. For example, Mental Health America lists the following symptoms of depression:
- Depressed mood and feelings of sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Significant weight loss or weight gain
- Difficulties with falling or staying asleep
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Trouble concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicidal ideation
If you are thinking about suicide, considering harming yourself or others, feeling that any other person may be in any danger, or if you have any medical emergency, you must immediately call the emergency service number (1-800-273-8255 in the US and 0800-689-5652 in the UK) and notify the relevant authorities. Seek immediate in-person assistance.
As part of the health screening, your doctor will likely conduct a physical exam to see if there are any underlying biological causes for your low mood that can explain your symptoms and perform a psychological exam to ensure a correct diagnosis.
Medical professionals recognize two types of depression: major depressive disorder (MDD) and persistent depressive disorder (PDD), formerly called dysthymic disorder. For a diagnosis of PDD, the symptoms must be present for at least two years. In MDD, depressive episodes come and go, with a space of at least two months between episodes. Healthcare professionals use different screening tools to diagnose MDD and PDD.
Other forms of depression that develop in unique circumstances, as noted by the Mental Health Association of Maryland, are seasonal affective disorder, postpartum depression, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Depression screening for adults
Mental Health America has a quick, free depression test on its website that assesses self-reported depression symptoms during the last two weeks. An online screening tool like this is one of the fastest and easiest ways to determine whether what you are experiencing may indicate the presence of a depressive disorder. Mental Health America recommends printing the results and showing them to a healthcare professional trained to diagnose mental illness, such as a primary care physician, psychologist, or psychiatrist.
Your physician might have questionnaires for you to fill out that will help them accurately assess your symptoms. Your healthcare provider can help you narrow down an appropriate treatment for your symptoms and individual circumstances. They consider factors like your family medical history, co-existing diagnoses, and whether you are currently on any medications.
Depression screening for children
Unfortunately, depression can occur at almost any age. It affects the young, the elderly, and even children. Diagnosing childhood depression and other types of mental illness should be done by a qualified professional, and there are often different criteria for childhood mental disorders compared to diagnosing adults.
There are also several online tools and resources for parents who are concerned about their children. In most cases, these quizzes are taken by the parents on their children's behalf. There are also self-reporting tests for adolescents, including tools and resources used for monitoring depression symptoms in teen patients. It is crucial to keep in mind these are screenings, and they do not replace a diagnostic assessment by a mental health professional.
Depression screening for the elderly
Research suggests that when screening for depression in older patients, short self-reporting scales can be simpler and easier for older individuals to complete.
A study by F. Lamers, C.C.M. Jonkers, H. Bosma, et al. (2008) found that the PHQ-9 was reliable and valid when used to screen for depression in chronically ill elderly patients ages 60 and up.
Elderly patients concerned that they might be experiencing depression and their families can find an online version of the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale, a screening tool. Still, it is essential to follow up with a medical professional for an official diagnosis at any age.
Depression treatment after screening and diagnosis
Studies have shown that depression can be a highly treatable mental illness. Many people with depression can recover with appropriate treatment, but proper diagnosis can be a vital first step. Once a diagnosis is in place, patients and their physicians can create a strategic treatment plan. Treatment options primarily include psychotherapy, medication, support groups, and lifestyle changes.
Therapy can be beneficial for learning to cope with mental health disorders. One can learn skills and techniques to incorporate healthy coping skills into their life. A common type of psychotherapy, known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), generally focuses on challenging unhelpful thought patterns to influence one’s mood and behavioral health.
Behavioral health normally involves the connection between an individual’s body and mind. Behavioral health typically focuses on how one’s habits can impact their mental and physical well-being. It can be crucial to recognize the connection between physical health and mental health. Strategies for managing depression can include engaging in healthy habits, such as following a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
Many individuals find it beneficial to participate in peer support groups to connect with others who can relate to the challenges of navigating depression. Research published by Mental Health America on peer support has generally proved its effectiveness in improving behavioral health.
To receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional, you can request a referral from your primary care physician, turn to an online directory, or find someone in your local area. If you can't attend in-person therapy sessions or have trouble affording them, there may be an alternative.
Benefits of online therapy
One alternative for depression screening and treatment may be through an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. Online therapy can have many advantages for people facing depression because it typically offers an ongoing therapeutic relationship where you can turn when you need support. Users can contact their therapist via phone call, video call, or online chat. For people with depression, online therapy sessions can be easier and more comfortable than going out into the world for an in-person appointment.
Effectiveness of online therapy
According to a 2019 study, online therapy can significantly reduce the severity of depression symptoms. It tends to be similarly effective to in-person therapy, and either option can be valid for those seeking professional help with depression.
Takeaway
Primary care physicians, psychologists, therapists, and psychiatrists may screen for and treat depression. These professionals generally know how to use the appropriate screening tools for an accurate diagnosis. After initial screening, a person may undergo other evaluations to receive a complete diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan. Prompt screening and treatment can eliminate or reduce the symptoms of depression. In addition, online or in-person therapy can provide emotional support and skills to avoid or manage future depressive episodes.
Is there a depression test I can take online?
Yes, there are several you can take online. For example, mental Health America has a quick, free depression test on its website that assesses self-reported depression symptoms during the last two weeks. An online screening tool like this is one of the fastest and easiest ways to determine whether what you are experiencing may indicate the presence of a depressive disorder. Mental Health America recommends printing the results and showing them to a healthcare professional trained to diagnose mental illness, such as a primary care physician, psychologist, or psychiatrist. Additionally, you can access mental health assessment tools for free online through companies such as Pfizer, Inc.
There are also several online tools and resources for parents who are concerned about their children. In most cases, these quizzes are taken by the parents on their children's behalf. There are also self-reporting tests for adolescents, including tools and resources used for monitoring depression symptoms in teen patients.
Is there any test to check depression?
Both online and in-person depression screening methods can help you get on the right track toward receiving a diagnosis and finding a treatment that works best for you.
When screening for depression in person, healthcare professionals look for a depressed mood and a little interest or pleasure in everyday activities lasting for at least two weeks. In addition, several other symptoms must be present for a diagnosis. For example, Mental Health America lists the following symptoms of depression:
- Depressed mood and feelings of sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Poor appetite, significant weight loss, or weight gain
- Difficulties with falling or staying asleep
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation
- Little energy or feeling tired
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Trouble concentrating on things
- Thoughts of death or suicidal ideation
Your physician might have questionnaires for you to fill out that will help them accurately assess your symptoms. Your healthcare provider can help you narrow down an appropriate treatment for your symptoms and individual circumstances. They consider factors like your family medical history, co-existing diagnoses, and whether you are currently on any medications.
What are 3 signs of clinical depression?
If half the days feel challenging, you’re watching television a lot, avoiding an important text message, or you have little interest in activities you once enjoyed, you may be struggling with depression. If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms, you may be experiencing clinical depression:
- Feeling bad or like a failure
- Trouble staying asleep or sleeping well
- Thoughts of death or suicide
What are the 5 signs of mental illness?
Mental illnesses rarely appear out of nowhere. Typically, individuals themselves or their loved ones begin to identify changes in thinking, behavior, or feelings – perhaps the glass always feels half empty. Learning how to spot early signs and developing symptoms can help you get the treatment you need to manage mental illness.
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with a doctor or mental health professional to discuss your concerns:
- Mood changes – Not feeling like your usual self, with shifts in emotions.
- Drop in functioning – Difficulty performing at school, work, or social activities.
- Illogical thinking – This may include exaggerated beliefs or “magical” thinking.
- Unusual behavior – Uncharacteristic or unusual behavior.
- Apathy – Loss of desire to participate in activities.
How do I identify my mental illness?
Early intervention can have a positive impact on your mental health, often minimizing or delaying symptoms, preventing hospitalization, and improving outcomes. If you notice any signs of mental illness, or are bothered by changes in your disposition, it can be beneficial to seek evaluation by a mental health or other health care professional. Only a medical professional can diagnose a mental illness. You can find additional resources on identifying mental illness through the American Psychiatric Association.
What are the 7 major mental disorders?
The World Health Organization characterizes a mental disorder as “a clinically significant disturbance in an individual’s cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior.” There are hundreds of forms of mental health challenges that can manifest in different ways, affecting thoughts, emotions, and behaviors with varying degrees of intensity. These distinct illnesses are frequently organized into broader categories to help people develop an informed understanding of their mental health challenges. These categories include:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Mood Disorders
- Psychotic Disorders
- Eating Disorders
- Personality Disorders
- Dementia
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
What causes depression?
There are many possible causes of depression and depression can affect anyone.
- Genetics: Some people may be genetically vulnerable. This doesn’t mean that you will definitively have a depressive disorder, but it increases your likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms at some point in your life.
- Personality: Personality traits can be another factor in the development of depression. For instance, someone who experiences feelings of low self-esteem more frequently than others may become overwhelmed by stress, and may be more susceptible to depression than those living with higher self-esteem.
- Environment: If you are or were exposed to excessive violence, neglect, poverty or abuse, you may be more likely to develop depression than someone who was not exposed to those factors on a regular basis.
What are the 5 levels of depression?
The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) lists five different types of depression, some of which may develop due to specific circumstances:
- Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (dysthymia)
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
- Depressive Disorder Due To Another Medical Condition
What is the last stage of depression?
The last stage of depression is what is known as recurrent or refractory (treatment-resistant) depression. Despite its name, there are still medications and procedures available that can help improve symptoms.
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