Depression Screening Tests are a Valuable Resource
| Author: FYI Staff Writer |  Email a friend |  Share on Facebook |  Tweet This |
Clinical depression is a serious medical disorder affecting 20 million Americans every year. Many of those people suffered needlessly, unaware that the symptoms they are experiencing may be clinical depression. Depression screening tests provide a useful tool for those who wonder if what they are experiencing may be depression and may provide an added incentive to getting help.
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.
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