Studies reveal that 21 million adults and 5 million teens between ages 12 and 17 have experienced at least one major depressive episode. More than just feeling down, clinical depression is a persistent state of sadness or despair that impacts a person’s ability to handle regular activities, such as work and sleep habits. A depression screening by a medical professional is one of the best ways to determine if an individual has some form of clinical depression.
If you or someone you love is experiencing an overwhelming feeling of sadness or hopelessness or has withdrawn from previously enjoyed activities, depression may be the cause. This article explains how to get a depression diagnosis and the treatment options available.
Symptoms of Clinical Depression
Depression impacts people differently based on various factors, such as their age and life experiences. However, many with depression experience numerous common symptoms, including:
- Persistent periods of sadness, hopelessness or anxiousness
- Change in appetite that could result in sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Change in sleep patterns — insomnia or oversleeping
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Loss of energy or chronic fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Impaired decision-making abilities
- Feelings of irritability or relentlessness
- Thoughts about suicide or self-harm
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Change in daily routine, such as grooming, hygiene or cleaning
- Difficulty fulfilling work duties
People struggling with depression, especially amidst a depressive episode, may also display noticeable changes in their behavior, such as:
- Increased drug and alcohol use
- Unusual anger, irritability and agitation
- Greater impulsivity and engagement in high-risk activities
- Failure to meet family and work responsibilities
- Withdrawn and detached demeanor
Who Do You See About Depression?
If you or someone you love is currently struggling with suicidal or irrational thoughts, call for help immediately.
If you think you or a loved one may have clinical depression, scheduling an appointment with a medical or mental health professional is a critical first step. Several types of providers can help determine if you have depression.
- Psychiatrist. Specializing in mental health disorders, including depression, these medical doctors typically work in private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals or other medical facilities such as nursing homes. Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat depression, including conducting depression screenings and prescribing medication.
- Psychologist. While not a medical doctor, a psychologist holds a doctorate-level degree in mental health. This professional can provide a mental health diagnosis and treat various disorders, including depression.
- Primary care physician. Your primary doctor can diagnose depression and prescribe medication as necessary. Since these medical practitioners don’t specialize in mental health, they may refer you to psychiatric or counseling services.
- Therapist. Depending on your therapist’s level of education and licensure, they may be able to diagnose depression. For instance, most states allow licensed clinical social workers and licensed mental health counselors to make mental health diagnoses. However, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or a family doctor, depending on the type of medication you require.
- Hospital. If you’re experiencing a depressive episode, a visit to the hospital may be necessary. Most hospitals employ psychiatrists or psychiatric nurses who can diagnose depression. You may also meet with a licensed therapist for individual counseling. Additionally, the hospital social worker can make referrals to local services to ensure you receive aftercare treatment.
Standard Evaluations for Depression Screening
Medical professionals use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, known as the DMS-5, to diagnose depression. According to this manual, a person must experience at least five depression symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks. The severity of these symptoms must cause the person significant distress or hinder their ability to maintain daily activities. Additionally, these symptoms can’t be due to any underlying medical condition.
Types of depression include:
- Major depressive disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Postpartum depression
- Persistent depressive disorder
- Bipolar depression
- Psychotic depression
Medical professionals use various assessments to diagnose depression, such as:
Medical Evaluation
The provider gathers a complete medical history that includes any past or current medical or mental health issues or any family history of these conditions. They conduct a physical examination to rule out any medical conditions that could cause depression or fatigue, such as anemia or thyroid disorder.
Self-Report Questionnaires
Medical professionals often use self-report questionnaires as diagnostic tools. These written or oral tests require you to answer a series of questions about your current mental health. Trained professionals use these questionnaires to gauge the severity of your depression symptoms and determine if you’ve reached the level of clinical depression.
Several types of self-report questionnaire tools are available, such as:
- Patient Health Questionnaire-9
- Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale
- Beck Depression Inventory
- Hamilton Depression Scale
- Geriatric Depression Scale
Symptom Assessment
The provider conducts a comprehensive clinical interview, including a symptom assessment. During this clinical depression test, the clinician asks a series of questions to better understand your current condition and any recent changes. They also evaluate the severity and frequency of any depression symptoms you’re experiencing.
Mood Disorder Evaluation
If necessary, your medical practitioner may administer a mood disorder evaluation. This helps prevent a misdiagnosis or an incomplete diagnosis, since other mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder and anxiety disorder, may cause similar symptoms.
Suicide Risk Assessment
A mental health professional often conducts a suicide risk assessment as part of your screening. This added evaluation ensures you’re not at risk of injuring yourself or others. If necessary, the doctor or counselor can make referrals to inpatient or outpatient care for more intensive treatment.
Seek Help Today
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of depression, know that help is available. Seek support from a trained professional who can provide a proper diagnosis. If you have clinical depression, you and your provider can develop a treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy, such as psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy, and antidepressant medication, including SSRIs and SNRIs.
Lifestyle changes may improve your depression symptoms. Consider starting an exercise program, improving your sleep habits and avoiding drugs and alcohol. You needn’t deal with your depression alone. Contact the Mental Health Hotline today. Trained professionals are standing by 24-7 to help.
