We had the opportunity to interview one of the studies lead researchers Dr. Wayne Katon, the Vice President of Psychiatry at the University of Washington, who explained that “the problem is that depression is three times as common in patients with diabetes as the general population.”

The reasons the two illnesses together may cause dementia was not determined as a part of this study.  One theory is that chemical changes brought on by depression-related stress alone might be enough to cause the onset of dementia. Furthermore, diabetes causes blood vessel problems and tissue damage that may put patients with diabetes more at risk for developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Katon this research is good news ultimately, because hopefully it will “encourage doctors to screen patients with diabetes for depression.” As Dr, Katon explained,”Depression is more treatable then diabetes.”

If you think you know someone with diabetes encourage them to get screened for depression. Get tested, get treatment, and get help, because prevention is always the best medication.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder (formerly referred to as manic depression) is diagnosed when a patient meets the criteria set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, (DSM-IV) which is published by the American Psychiatric Association and is used to appropriately diagnose mental health disorders. The Manual lists criteria for manic episodes, depressive episodes and for mixed episodes, which are times when both extremes are present nearly every day for at least a week. It also defines what is known as a hypomanic episode. In simplest terms, a hypomanic episode has the same types of behaviors or symptoms as a manic one, but they are not as severe or as long lasting as a full manic episode.

There are three types of bipolar disorder- Bipolar I disorder, Bipolar II disorder, and Cyclothymic disorder. With Bipolar I disorder, you have definitely had at least one manic or mixed episode, but not necessarily a major depressive disorder. Bipolar II disorder means you have had at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, but not necessarily a full manic or mixed episode. Cyclothymic disorder means you have several hypomanic episodes and several depressive periods, but not a full manic, major depressive or a mixed episode.

The first step in diagnosing bipolar disorder is usually a screening test like the one developed by Ivan Goldberg, or the Bipolar Mood Disorder Questionnaire used by many mental health professionals as a screening tool. By assessing the answers to a few simple questions, patients and doctors can begin to get a picture of whether bipolar disorder is responsible for ups and downs in life that seem to be more than just the average ebb and flow of life. A bipolar disorder quiz can also be used as a bipolar self test to help someone realize he or she should see a doctor for further evaluation.

The crux of a Bipolar Disorder Test or a Manic Depressive Test is an assessment of an overall pattern of moods and related behavior, not just a short-term period of problems.

The manic or “up” stages of the disorder are evaluated by periods of talkativeness or extreme energy, lack of sleep, impulsive behaviors such as spending too much money, risky behaviors including sexual promiscuity, among others. The depression or “down” periods of the disorder are addressed through questions about sleeping too much, feeling hopeless, restless, anxious, or suicidal as well as a prolonged sadness and loss of energy.

Although a bipolar disorder test is merely a screening tool, it is an important part of a professional diagnosis. While a questionnaire can never fully asses all situations with accuracy, they are useful when diagnosing bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. They are best used to help you define and narrow down your symptoms and explain them to your doctor so you can get the proper help and treatment in dealing with bipolar symptoms.

As startling as the number of sufferers may be, depression remains one of the most widely under diagnosed and under treated mental health disorders. Many times, symptoms are masked by drug or alcohol abuse which can delay diagnosis, as well as hinder treatment. Some symptoms may be dismissed or not understood to be associated with depression by the sufferer. However, once diagnosed, a large majority of patients are treated successfully.

The Importance of Mental Health Screenings

Depression screening tests are often a first step in getting help, or in acknowledging a need to seek medical advice. Many people who might not seek help voluntarily or at the suggestion of others may do so if they realize a need and the decision is their own.

There are Many Reasons to Screen for Depression

• Clinical Depression is a serious condition that can lead to suicide
• Depression can complicate other medical conditions
• Depression can negatively impact work and family life
• Once diagnosed, more than 80% of sufferers are successfully treated

How Screenings Work

There are many different depression diagnostic tests used, but all evaluate the same basic elements. Each screening, involves a short series of questions and evaluates the level of depression within the answers. Most online tests are taken anonymously with the results only viewable by the taker.

Depression Screening Questionnaires Examine:

• Depressed Mood
• Change in appetite
• Too much or too little sleep
• Feelings of worthlessness or self-hate
• Loss of interest in activities or people
• Fatigue
• Thoughts of death

Different Tests Available

There are several common tests utilized in the mental health field. Some are specific to certain circumstances, such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale which is specific to mothers who have recently given birth. Some, such as the Beck Depression Inventory is administered by a mental health professional while others are available online. In 2000, The National Mental Health Association (NMHA), for instance, launched a website which enables people to take a confidential  screening test online. The online tests are fast, simple, and straightforward. Most tests will show a score that can be found within certain ranges on a chart give the taker a very good idea whether or not they should seek help.

National Depression Screening Day

One day each year, usually in October, The National Screening Project sponsors the National Depression Screening Day and offers the opportunity to be screened for free at sites throughout the nation. The program offers confidential screeningsand the opportunity to connect to care.

Limitations of Depression Screening Tests

Depression screenings are only a tool and intended to inform the person taking the evaluation. They are not a firm diagnosis. Some, even once they realize they may potentially have clinical depression, may not take the next step and seek treatment. If a test indicates you may have depression, it is important to follow up with your primary care physician or a mental health professional for referral or further evaluation.