Depresja u dorosłych
Diagnostyka i diagnoza

Depresja jest powszechnym zaburzeniem psychicznym, dotykającym 5-8% populacji dorosłych, z rosnącą częstością sięgającą nawet 18,4% w populacji USA. Diagnoza opiera się na kryteriach DSM-5, które wymagają obecności co najmniej 5 z 9 objawów depresji przez większość dnia, niemal codziennie, przez minimum 2 tygodnie, z obowiązkowym objawem obniżonego nastroju lub anhedonii. Objawy muszą powodować istotne upośledzenie funkcjonowania i nie mogą być wynikiem substancji psychoaktywnych, leków czy chorób somatycznych. Diagnostyka obejmuje szczegółowy wywiad kliniczny, ocenę ryzyka samobójczego oraz stosowanie narzędzi przesiewowych takich jak PHQ-9 (wyniki 5-9 – łagodna, 10-14 – umiarkowana, 15-19 – umiarkowanie ciężka, 20-27 – ciężka depresja), PHQ-2, HAM-D, BDI, GDS i CSDD. Wykluczenie somatycznych przyczyn wymaga badań laboratoryjnych (morfologia, panel metaboliczny, TSH, fT4, witamina D, B12) oraz w wybranych przypadkach badań obrazowych mózgu (CT, MRI).

Diagnostyka depresji u dorosłych

Depresja to powszechne zaburzenie psychiczne, które dotyka znaczący odsetek populacji dorosłych. Według różnych badań epidemiologicznych, częstość występowania depresji u dorosłych szacuje się na około 5-8% populacji ogólnej, choć niektóre nowsze dane z USA wskazują, że nawet 18,4% dorosłych Amerykanów zgłasza diagnozę depresji w ciągu życia, a liczba ta stale rośnie12. Właściwa diagnostyka tego zaburzenia jest kluczowa dla skutecznego leczenia, dlatego niniejszy artykuł przedstawia najważniejsze aspekty rozpoznawania depresji u dorosłych.

Podejście kliniczne do diagnozy depresji

Depresja jest rozpoznaniem klinicznym, opartym głównie na wywiadzie i badaniu stanu psychicznego pacjenta. W przeciwieństwie do wielu chorób somatycznych, nie istnieją obecnie jednoznaczne badania laboratoryjne czy obrazowe, które mogłyby bezpośrednio potwierdzić to rozpoznanie12. Diagnoza stawiana jest na podstawie oceny objawów zgłaszanych przez pacjenta, obserwacji jego zachowania oraz informacji uzyskanych od członków rodziny lub przyjaciół1.

Aby zdiagnozować dużą depresję (zaburzenie depresyjne nawracające), objawy muszą występować przez większość dnia, prawie codziennie, przez co najmniej 2 tygodnie12. Według kryteriów diagnostycznych DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition), jednym z objawów musi być obniżony nastrój lub utrata zainteresowania lub przyjemności z większości aktywności12.

Kryteria diagnostyczne DSM-5 dla dużej depresji

Aby postawić diagnozę dużej depresji według DSM-5, pacjent musi spełniać następujące kryteria12:

  • Wykazywać co najmniej 5 z 9 objawów depresji, z których jednym musi być obniżony nastrój lub anhedonia (utrata zainteresowań i przyjemności)
  • Objawy muszą występować prawie codziennie, przez większość dnia, przez co najmniej 2 tygodnie
  • Objawy muszą powodować klinicznie istotne cierpienie lub upośledzenie funkcjonowania społecznego, zawodowego lub w innych ważnych obszarach
  • Objawy nie mogą być wynikiem działania substancji psychoaktywnych, leków lub choroby somatycznej
  • Epizod nie może być lepiej wyjaśniony przez inne zaburzenia psychiczne, a nigdy nie wystąpił epizod maniakalny lub hipomaniakalny1

Dziewięć głównych objawów depresji według DSM-5 obejmuje12:

  1. Obniżony nastrój (smutek, przygnębienie, poczucie pustki)
  2. Wyraźnie zmniejszone zainteresowanie lub przyjemność ze wszystkich lub prawie wszystkich aktywności
  3. Znaczna utrata lub przyrost masy ciała lub zmiana apetytu
  4. Bezsenność lub nadmierna senność
  5. Pobudzenie lub spowolnienie psychoruchowe
  6. Zmęczenie lub utrata energii
  7. Poczucie bezwartościowości lub nadmierne, nieadekwatne poczucie winy
  8. Zmniejszona zdolność myślenia lub koncentracji, niezdecydowanie
  9. Nawracające myśli o śmierci, myśli samobójcze, plan samobójczy lub próba samobójcza1

Proces diagnostyczny

Proces diagnozy depresji zwykle obejmuje kilka etapów12:

Wywiad kliniczny

Podstawą diagnozy jest szczegółowy wywiad kliniczny, podczas którego lekarz zbiera informacje o12:

  • Aktualnych objawach i ich wpływie na codzienne funkcjonowanie
  • Czasie trwania objawów
  • Historii poprzednich epizodów depresji lub innych zaburzeń psychicznych
  • Rodzinnej historii chorób psychicznych
  • Obecnych chorobach somatycznych i przyjmowanych lekach
  • Używaniu substancji psychoaktywnych (alkohol, narkotyki)
  • Stresujących wydarzeniach życiowych
  • Myślach samobójczych i planach samobójczych1
Kwestionariusze i skale oceny depresji

W celu wspomagania diagnozy i oceny nasilenia objawów depresji stosuje się różne kwestionariusze i skale12:

  • Kwestionariusz Zdrowia Pacjenta-9 (PHQ-9) – najczęściej używane narzędzie przesiewowe w podstawowej opiece zdrowotnej; zawiera 9 pytań odpowiadających kryteriom DSM-5 dla depresji; wynik 5-9 sugeruje łagodną depresję, 10-14 umiarkowaną, 15-19 umiarkowanie ciężką, a 20-27 ciężką depresję12
  • Kwestionariusz Zdrowia Pacjenta-2 (PHQ-2) – krótsza, dwupytaniowa wersja przesiewowa, używana do wstępnej oceny; pozytywny wynik wymaga dalszej, bardziej szczegółowej oceny12
  • Skala Depresji Hamiltona (HAM-D) – narzędzie administrowane przez klinicystę, często używane w badaniach klinicznych do oceny nasilenia depresji1
  • Inwentarz Depresji Becka (BDI) – samoocena nasilenia objawów depresji1
  • Geriatryczna Skala Depresji (GDS) – specjalnie opracowana dla osób starszych, dostępna w wersji 30-itemowej lub krótszej 15-itemowej12
  • Skala Depresji Cornella w Demencji (CSDD) – przeznaczona dla osób starszych z zaburzeniami poznawczymi1

Należy podkreślić, że kwestionariusze i skale oceny są narzędziami pomocniczymi – pozytywny wynik testu przesiewowego nie jest równoznaczny z diagnozą depresji, a jedynie wskazuje na potrzebę dalszej oceny klinicznej12. Ostateczna diagnoza musi zostać postawiona przez lekarza lub specjalistę zdrowia psychicznego na podstawie pełnej oceny klinicznej1.

Badanie fizykalne i badania laboratoryjne

Ważnym elementem procesu diagnostycznego jest wykluczenie chorób somatycznych, które mogą powodować lub nasilać objawy depresyjne12. W tym celu lekarz może zlecić12:

  • Badania laboratoryjne: morfologia krwi, panel metaboliczny, funkcje tarczycy (TSH, fT4), poziom witaminy D, poziom witaminy B12, badania funkcji wątroby
  • Badanie toksykologiczne – w celu wykluczenia wpływu substancji psychoaktywnych
  • W wybranych przypadkach – badania obrazowe mózgu (CT, MRI), szczególnie u pacjentów z objawami neurologicznymi lub nietypowym początkiem depresji w późnym wieku1

Trudności diagnostyczne i różnicowanie

Diagnostyka depresji może być wyzwaniem z kilku powodów12:

  • Pacjenci często nie zgłaszają się z powodu obniżonego nastroju, ale raczej z powodu objawów somatycznych (bóle, zmęczenie, zaburzenia snu)
  • Objawy depresji mogą nakładać się na objawy innych zaburzeń psychicznych lub chorób somatycznych
  • Depresja często współwystępuje z innymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi (np. zaburzeniami lękowymi) lub chorobami przewlekłymi
  • Obraz kliniczny depresji może różnić się w zależności od wieku, płci i pochodzenia kulturowego pacjenta
  • U osób starszych depresja może manifestować się głównie objawami poznawczymi lub somatycznymi, przy mniej wyraźnych objawach afektywnych1

W diagnostyce różnicowej depresji należy uwzględnić12:

  • Zaburzenia afektywne dwubiegunowe
  • Zaburzenia adaptacyjne z obniżonym nastrojem
  • Reakcję żałoby (choć DSM-5 nie wyklucza diagnozy depresji w okresie żałoby, jeśli spełnione są kryteria)1
  • Zaburzenia lękowe
  • Zaburzenia psychotyczne
  • Zaburzenia osobowości
  • Choroby somatyczne (np. niedoczynność tarczycy, anemia, choroba Parkinsona)
  • Działania niepożądane leków
  • Nadużywanie substancji psychoaktywnych lub zespoły abstynencyjne1

Rodzaje depresji i specyfikatory

DSM-5 wyróżnia kilka typów zaburzeń depresyjnych oraz specyfikatory, które pozwalają na bardziej precyzyjną diagnozę12:

DSM-5 wprowadził również specyfikatory nasilenia depresji1:

  • Łagodna – niewielka liczba objawów ponad minimum diagnostyczne, z niewielkim upośledzeniem funkcjonowania
  • Umiarkowana – liczba objawów i stopień upośledzenia funkcjonowania między łagodnym a ciężkim
  • Ciężka – liczba objawów znacznie przekracza minimum diagnostyczne, z poważnym upośledzeniem funkcjonowania społecznego i zawodowego1

Znaczenie wczesnej i właściwej diagnozy

Wczesna i dokładna diagnoza depresji ma kluczowe znaczenie z kilku powodów12:

  • Depresja jest chorobą potencjalnie zagrażającą życiu ze względu na zwiększone ryzyko samobójstwa1
  • Nieleczona depresja ma tendencję do chroniczności i nawrotów, z każdym kolejnym epizodem zwiększa się ryzyko następnych1
  • Wczesne rozpoczęcie leczenia poprawia rokowanie i zmniejsza ryzyko nawrotów1
  • Depresja jest jednym z najbardziej skutecznie leczonych zaburzeń psychicznych – około 80-90% pacjentów dobrze odpowiada na leczenie1

Podkreśla się również wagę systemów zapewniających nie tylko samo przesiewowe wykrywanie depresji, ale również odpowiednią diagnostykę, leczenie i monitorowanie pacjentów. Amerykańska Grupa Zadaniowa ds. Profilaktyki (USPSTF) zaleca przesiewowe badania w kierunku depresji u całej populacji dorosłych, w tym kobiet w ciąży i w okresie poporodowym, pod warunkiem istnienia odpowiednich systemów opieki12.

Nowe kierunki w diagnostyce depresji

Trwają badania nad biologicznymi markerami depresji, które mogłyby dopełnić diagnozę kliniczną12:

  • Markery krwi – badania nad panelami biomarkerów obejmującymi poziomy czynników wzrostu, cytokin, hormonów i markerów metabolicznych
  • Badania neuroobrazowaincjalne – poszukiwanie specyficznych wzorców aktywności lub strukturalnych zmian w mózgu
  • Markery genetyczne i epigenetyczne związane z depresją1

Choć niektóre z tych badań są obiecujące, obecnie nadal nie ma jednego, definitywnego testu biologicznego, który mógłby jednoznacznie potwierdzić diagnozę depresji12. Diagnostyka kliniczna oparta na kryteriach DSM-5 pozostaje złotym standardem.

Podsumowanie procesu diagnostycznego

Diagnoza depresji u dorosłych to złożony proces wymagający kompleksowego podejścia klinicznego12. Obejmuje on:

  1. Dokładny wywiad kliniczny obejmujący historię objawów, ich czas trwania i wpływ na codzienne funkcjonowanie
  2. Zastosowanie standaryzowanych kwestionariuszy i skal oceny do oceny nasilenia objawów
  3. Badanie fizykalne i badania laboratoryjne w celu wykluczenia organicznych przyczyn objawów
  4. Różnicowanie z innymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi i chorobami somatycznymi
  5. Ocenę ryzyka samobójczego1

Prawidłowa diagnoza depresji jest fundamentem skutecznego leczenia i poprawy jakości życia pacjentów. W przypadku podejrzenia depresji kluczowe jest niezwłoczne zgłoszenie się do lekarza podstawowej opieki zdrowotnej lub specjalisty zdrowia psychicznego w celu przeprowadzenia pełnej oceny diagnostycznej12.

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 National, State-Level, and County-Level Prevalence Estimates of Adults Aged ≥18 Years Self-Reporting a Lifetime Diagnosis of Depression — United States, 2020 | MMWR
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7224a1.htm
    Depression is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. […] During 2020, 18.4% of U.S. adults reported having ever been diagnosed with depression; state-level age-standardized estimates ranged from 12.7% in Hawaii to 27.5% in West Virginia. […] The age-standardized prevalence of depression among U.S. adults was 18.5%. […] A lifetime diagnosis of depression was defined as a yes response to the question, Has a doctor, nurse, or other health professional ever told you that you had a depressive disorder, including depression, major depression, dysthymia, or minor depression? […] This report provides current estimates of national, state-level, and county-level prevalence of adults reporting a lifetime diagnosis of depression.
  • #1 Major Depressive Disorder – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/
    Major depressive disorder (MDD) is diagnosed when an individual has a persistently low or depressed mood, anhedonia or decreased interest in pleasurable activities, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, lack of energy, poor concentration, appetite changes, psychomotor retardation or agitation, sleep disturbances, or suicidal thoughts. […] Per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), an individual must have five of the above-mentioned symptoms, of which one must be a depressed mood or anhedonia causing social or occupational impairment, to be diagnosed with MDD. […] Major depressive disorder is a clinical diagnosis; it is mainly diagnosed by the clinical history given by the patient and mental status examination. […] Although there is no objective testing available to diagnose depression, routine laboratory work including complete blood account with differential, comprehensive metabolic panel, thyroid-stimulating hormone, free T4, vitamin D, urinalysis, and toxicology screening is done to rule out organic or medical causes of depression.
  • #1 Major depressive disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_depressive_disorder
    The diagnosis of major depressive disorder is based on the person’s reported experiences, behavior reported by family or friends, and a mental status examination. There is no laboratory test for the disorder, but testing may be done to rule out physical conditions that can cause similar symptoms. The most common time of onset is in a person’s 20s, with females affected about three times as often as males. The course of the disorder varies widely, from one episode lasting months to a lifelong disorder with recurrent major depressive episodes. […] Those with major depressive disorder are typically treated with psychotherapy and antidepressant medication. While a mainstay of treatment, the clinical efficacy of antidepressants is controversial. Hospitalization (which may be involuntary) may be necessary in cases with associated self-neglect or a significant risk of harm to self or others. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered if other measures are not effective.
  • #1 Depression – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression
    To be diagnosed with depression, a person must have symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks. One of the symptoms must be a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in most activities. […] Although several persistent symptoms, in addition to low mood, are required for a depression diagnosis, people with only a few symptoms may benefit from treatment. The severity and frequency of symptoms and how long they last vary depending on the person. […] If you think you may have depression, talk to a health care provider, such as a primary care doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. During the visit, the provider may ask when your symptoms began, how long they have lasted, how often they occur, and if they keep you from going out or doing your usual activities. […] Certain medications and medical conditions, such as viruses or thyroid disorders, can cause the same symptoms as depression. A provider can rule out these possibilities by doing a physical exam, interview, and lab tests.
  • #1 Depression Diagnosis and Screening: What Doctors Look For
    https://www.webmd.com/depression/depression-diagnosis
    In the past, all mood disorders were lumped together. Now, doctors can diagnose the specific disorder or subtype of depression that you may have. […] There are lists of criteria to help your doctor diagnose specific types of depression. […] For major depression, you must have a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in life, plus four or more of these symptoms within a 2-week period: […] Your doctor may include standard medical tests as part of the initial physical exam. […] After discussing your mood and how it affects your life, your doctor may also ask you questions that are used specifically to screen for depression. […] To be diagnosed with major depression, you must have a depressed mood or have lost interest or pleasure in life, plus have four of the symptoms listed above.
  • #1 How is depression diagnosed? Criteria, types, and more
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-is-depression-diagnosed
    To diagnose depression, doctors, psychiatrists, and other certified mental health professionals assess a persons symptoms and compare them to diagnostic guidelines. […] When making a diagnosis, a healthcare professional may consider a persons symptoms and family medical history to determine whether a person meets the diagnostic criteria. […] Mental health professionals typically use the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR) to determine whether a person has major depressive disorder. […] For a person to receive a depression diagnosis, they must: have at least five symptoms of depression, experience the symptoms every day, for most of the day, for at least 2 weeks, must have either a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities as one of the symptoms.
  • #1 Tests, Screening, and Criteria for Diagnosing Depression
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-depression-is-diagnosed-5114270
    Importantly, these symptoms cannot be the result of substance use (e.g., medication side effects or drug abuse), a physical illness, or another mental disorder. In addition, there should never have been a manic or hypomanic episode. […] No single test can definitively diagnose depression. Instead, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and how long you have been experiencing them. They will use this information to see if you meet the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for major depression. […] Your healthcare provider may also order tests to make sure that you don’t have any health problems that could be contributing to your symptoms.
  • #1 How Depression Is Diagnosed According to the DSM-5
    https://www.verywellmind.com/dsm-5-and-diagnosis-of-depression-1066916
    To be diagnosed with major depression, a person’s symptoms must fit the criteria outlined in the DSM-5. Feelings of sadness, low mood, and loss of interest in their usual activities must mark a change from a person’s previous level of functioning and have persisted for at least two weeks. These feelings must also be accompanied by at least five other common symptoms of depression, including: Change in appetite, losing or gaining weight; Sleeping too much or not sleeping well (insomnia); Fatigue and low energy most days; Feeling worthless, guilty, and hopeless; An inability to focus and concentrate that may interfere with daily tasks at home, work, or school; Movements that are unusually slow or agitated (a change which is often noticeable to others); Thinking about death and dying; suicidal ideation or suicide attempts. […] The symptoms must not be a result of substance abuse or another medical condition. Doctors must rule out other mental health conditions that can have a depression component but are not strictly a major depressive disorder (e.g., bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder).
  • #1 Depression: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/depression
    In order to be diagnosed with clinical depression, you must experience five or more of the following symptoms over a 2-week period: feeling depressed most of the day, loss of interest in most regular activities, significant weight loss or gain, sleeping a lot or not being able to sleep, slowed thinking or movement, fatigue or low energy most days, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, loss of concentration or indecisiveness, recurring thoughts of death or suicide. […] Depression can be treated successfully, but its important to stick to your treatment plan.
  • #1 Depression (major depressive disorder) – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356013
    Your doctor may determine a diagnosis of depression based on: […] Your mental health professional asks about your symptoms, thoughts, feelings and behavior patterns. You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire to help answer these questions. […] Your mental health professional may use the criteria for depression listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. […] It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis, so you can get appropriate treatment. […] Your doctor will likely ask you a number of questions. Be ready to answer them to reserve time to go over any points you want to focus on.
  • #1 Diagnosing Depression | NYU Langone Health
    https://nyulangone.org/conditions/depression/diagnosis
    Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that can make it difficult to enjoy life. […] To diagnose depression, a doctor performs a physical exam, asks about your symptoms, and recommends a blood test to determine if another condition, such as hypothyroidism, is causing your symptoms. […] If the doctor does not find an underlying cause of your symptoms, he or she performs a psychological evaluation. […] During a psychological evaluation, an NYU Langone specialist asks if you have a family history of depression or anxiety disorders. […] After the specialist assesses your symptoms and family history, he or she conducts a feedback session, during which you discuss the diagnosis and most appropriate treatment options.
  • #1 Major Depressive Disorder in Adults – Diagnosis and Management – Province of British Columbia
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/practitioner-professional-resources/bc-guidelines/depression-in-adults
    Once patient has met MDD criteria, conduct a suicide risk assessment. […] Ask the patient if they have thoughts of death or suicide, feel life is not worth living, have made a previous suicide attempt and if there is a family history of suicide. […] If the answer is yes to any of the above, ask about their plans for suicide (e.g., have they considered a method, do they have access to material required for suicide and if they have written a note). […] Antidepressants are continued for at least 6 months after remission. […] Depression should not be diagnosed or excluded solely on the basis of a PHQ-9 score.
  • #1 Depression in adults – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice
    https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/55
    Esketamine nasal spray is approved for patients who have treatment-resistant depression (TRD) – defined as an inadequate response to at least two oral antidepressants. […] For screening and diagnosis, self-rating forms are helpful, but clinical diagnosis is essential. Positive screening should trigger full history, mental status examination, treatment, and follow-up. […] Both International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-11 and Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, fifth edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR) define mild, moderate, and severe depression based on the number and intensity of symptoms, and on the degree of functional impairment. […] The severity of psychiatric disorders. World Psychiatry. 2018 Oct;17(3):258-75. […] Globally, the most widely used tool for assessing severity of depression in clinical practice is the 9-item version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), which is based on DSM criteria; scores may be used to characterise severity of depression, and to assess treatment response.
  • #1 Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) – Mental Health Screening – National HIV Curriculum
    https://www.hiv.uw.edu/page/mental-health-screening/phq-9
    The PHQ-9 is a multipurpose instrument for screening, diagnosing, monitoring and measuring the severity of depression. […] Total scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent cutpoints for mild, moderate, moderately severe and severe depression, respectively. […] A patient who answers yes to question 9 needs further assessment for suicide risk by an individual who is competent to assess this risk. […] Provisional Diagnosis and Proposed Treatment Actions PHQ-9 Score Depression Severity Proposed Treatment Actions 0 4 None-minimal None 5 9 Mild Watchful waiting; repeat PHQ-9 at follow-up 10 14 Moderate Treatment plan, considering counseling, follow-up and/or pharmacotherapy 15 19 Moderately Severe Active treatment with pharmacotherapy and/or psychotherapy 20 27 Severe Immediate initiation of pharmacotherapy and, if severe impairment or poor response to therapy, expedited referral to a mental health specialist for psychotherapy and/or collaborative management.
  • #1 Major Depressive Disorder in Adults – Diagnosis and Management – Province of British Columbia
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/practitioner-professional-resources/bc-guidelines/depression-in-adults
    This guideline provides recommendations on how to diagnose and manage major depressive disorder (MDD) in the primary care setting for non-pregnant patients aged 19 65 years. […] Screen patients who present with symptoms for MDD. Note that some patients present with somatic symptoms. Use the 'two quick question’ screening method. […] An answer of yes to either question requires a more detailed assessment. […] The detailed assessment includes: Clinical interview to determine if the patient meets the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) criteria to diagnose MDD by using S2IGECAPS and focusing on functional status. […] Review PHQ-9 score and responses. The PHQ-9 is a patient administered questionnaire that aids in the diagnosis and assesses the severity (e.g., mild, moderate, severe) of depression.
  • #1 Major Depressive Disorder – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/
    In primary care settings, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), which is a self-report, standardized depression rating scale is commonly used for screening, diagnosing, and monitoring treatment response for MDD. […] The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D), which is a clinician-administered depression rating scale is commonly used for the assessment of depression. […] While evaluating for MDD, it is important to rule out depressive disorder due to another medical condition, substance/medication-induced depressive disorder, dysthymia, cyclothymia, bereavement, adjustment disorder with depressed mood, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders for the appropriate management.
  • #1 Major depressive disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_depressive_disorder
    A diagnostic assessment may be conducted by a suitably trained general practitioner, or by a psychiatrist or psychologist, who records the person’s current circumstances, biographical history, current symptoms, family history, and alcohol and drug use. The assessment also includes a mental state examination, which is an assessment of the person’s current mood and thought content, in particular the presence of themes of hopelessness or pessimism, self-harm or suicide, and an absence of positive thoughts or plans. […] Rating scales are not used to diagnose depression, but they provide an indication of the severity of symptoms for a time period, so a person who scores above a given cut-off point can be more thoroughly evaluated for a depressive disorder diagnosis. Several rating scales are used for this purpose; these include the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, the Beck Depression Inventory or the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised.
  • #1 Depression in older adults: Diagnosis and management | British Columbia Medical Journal
    https://bcmj.org/articles/depression-older-adults-diagnosis-and-management
    Late-life depression is a major mental health problem that challenges clinicians and will remain so as the population of British Columbians older than 65 continues to grow. […] An effective approach to this treatable disorder includes recognition of risk factors, detection, and assessment. The Geriatric Depression Scale and the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia can assist in diagnosis, while both psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy are options for management. […] Once late-life depression has been detected and assessed, psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy are both options for treating this common mental health problem. […] Generally, the diagnosis of LLD can be made using DSM-5 criteria. […] Two screening tools for LLD can assist in diagnosis. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), a validated questionnaire for self-rated assessment, is available in a 30-item long-form and a 15-item short-form version.
  • #1 Screening Tests for Depression: Overview, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Beck Depression Inventory
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1859039-overview
    The cutoff score is 26 for the diagnosis of major (moderate to severe) depression. […] The sensitivity of the MDI algorithms is between 86% and 92%, while the specificity is between 82% and 86%. […] The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was specifically developed for use in geriatric populations, originally as a 30-item scale. […] The questions elicit only yes or no responses, making comprehension easier compared with multiple-choice answers. […] A score of greater than or equal to 2 is a positive screen for depression. […] The Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD) is designed for use in elderly patients with underlying cognitive deficits. […] A total score of 10 indicate probable major depression and greater than 18 indicate definite major depression. […] Depression is a major public health issue, causing significant suffering and disability in the United States and worldwide. […] The use of depression screening instruments can be a simple, efficient method to provide such screening in a sensitive and specific manner.
  • #1 Depression | Mental Health America
    https://mhanational.org/conditions/depression/
    Major depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting more than 8% (21 million) of American adults each year. […] While most individuals with depression have a full remission of the disorder with effective treatment, only about a third (35%) of those suffering from severe depression seek treatment from a mental health professional. […] A quick, easy, and confidential way to determine if you may be experiencing depression is to take a screening. A screening is not a diagnosis, but a way of understanding if your symptoms are having enough of an impact that you should seek help from a doctor or other professional. […] Depression is very treatable, with the overwhelming majority of those who seek treatment showing improvement. The most commonly used treatments are antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.
  • #1 Major depressive disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_depressive_disorder
    A doctor generally performs a medical examination and selected investigations to rule out other causes of depressive symptoms. These include blood tests measuring TSH and thyroxine to exclude hypothyroidism; basic electrolytes and serum calcium to rule out a metabolic disturbance; and a full blood count including ESR to rule out a systemic infection or chronic disease. Adverse affective reactions to medications or alcohol misuse may be ruled out, as well.
  • #1 Depression Workup: Approach Considerations, Screening Tests, Laboratory Studies to Rule Out Organic Causes
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/286759-workup
    Neuroimaging can help clarify the nature of the neurologic illness that may produce psychiatric symptoms, but these studies are costly and may be of questionable value in patients without discrete neurologic deficits. Computed tomography (CT) scanning or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain should be considered if organic brain syndrome or hypopituitarism is included in the differential diagnosis.
  • #1 Approach to the adult patient with suspected depression – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/approach-to-the-adult-patient-with-suspected-depression
    Approach to the adult patient with suspected depression […] Symptoms of depression are common in primary care and outpatient specialty settings; their prevalence ranges from 17 to 53 percent. Most individuals with depressive symptoms will not have major depressive disorder (MDD) but will instead have a different depressive disorder or an alternative cause of depressed mood. […] Studies suggest that non-psychiatrists do not accurately diagnose depression, with both under- and overdiagnosis occurring. Underdiagnosis is common, in part because many patients with major depression do not present with depressed mood. […] Patients in primary care settings can have a wide spectrum of depressive symptoms, can present with predominantly physical symptoms, and often have comorbid chronic diseases that can contribute to and masquerade as clinical depression.
  • #1 Depression in Older Adults: Principles of Diagnosis and Management | SpringerLink
    https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-19625-7_17
    Depression is underdiagnosed in older adults and is associated with a variety of adverse health outcomes including increased disability and mortality. […] Diagnosis can be challenging in older patients because they may not exhibit the affective symptoms typically seen in younger patients. […] The Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) is a validated tool used to aid in screening for depression. […] This chapter provides an overview of the unique diagnostic and therapeutic considerations that should be taken into account when managing depression in older adults.
  • #1 How Depression Is Diagnosed According to the DSM-5
    https://www.verywellmind.com/dsm-5-and-diagnosis-of-depression-1066916
    The DSM-5 added new specifiers to further clarify depression diagnoses when applicable: with mixed features and with anxious distress. […] The DSM-5 removed what was known as the bereavement exclusion for major depressive episodes. In the past, depression symptoms lasting less than two months following the death of a loved one would not have been classified as a major depressive episode. The new edition of the DSM acknowledges that there is no scientifically valid reason for treating the grieving process any differently from other stressors that can trigger a depressive episode.
  • #1 Approach to the adult patient with suspected depression – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/approach-to-the-adult-patient-with-suspected-depression
    The initial evaluation should yield sufficient information to determine whether clinically significant depressive symptoms exist that suggest a depressive disorder or whether the patient’s presentation suggests an alternative diagnosis. […] If the patient does not require urgent management and has depressive symptoms that are prominent and persistent, we pursue a diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) or an alternative depressive disorder. […] Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a syndrome characterized by at least one episode of major depression without a history of mania or hypomania. […] Some individuals have clinically significant symptoms of depression that differ from MDD with respect to time course, symptom severity, or existence of a precipitating medical factor.
  • #1 Depression in adults – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice US
    https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-us/55
    Depression can describe both a mood and an illness. […] Major depressive disorder is a clinical syndrome involving mood, neurovegetative functions, cognition, and behavior. […] For screening and diagnosis, self-rating forms are helpful, but clinical diagnosis is essential. Positive screening should trigger full history, mental status exam, treatment, and follow-up. […] Both International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-11 and Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, fifth edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR) define „mild,” „moderate,” and „severe” depression based on the number and intensity of symptoms, and on the degree of functional impairment. […] Globally, the most widely used tool for assessing severity of depression in clinical practice is the 9-item version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), which is based on DSM criteria; scores may be used to characterize severity of depression, and to assess treatment response.
  • #1 Depression Diagnosis and Screening: What Doctors Look For
    https://www.webmd.com/depression/depression-diagnosis
    Everyone experiences feelings of depression from time to time: its a fact of life. But this type of depression shouldnt be confused with the different types of depression that are true medical conditions. These must be diagnosed by qualified health care professionals after an examination and depression screening tools. Diagnoses could include major depressive disorder, postpartum depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), to name a few. […] There is no one specific medical test that can tell if you have depression. Instead, doctors diagnose depression through a combination of lab tests to rule out other possible causes (such as hypothyroidism), depression screening tests, and by talking to you. […] A depression diagnosis is often difficult to make because clinical depression can show up in so many different ways.
  • #1 Symptoms – Depression in adults – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/depression-in-adults/symptoms/
    Doctors describe depression in adults as either less severe (mild) or more severe (moderate or severe), based on: […] You’ll usually be asked to answer a set of questions to help doctors assess how severe your condition is. […] See a GP if you experience symptoms of depression for most of the day, every day, for more than 2 weeks. […] Read more about diagnosing depression.
  • #1 Depression (major depressive disorder) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007
    Depression is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness that won’t go away. […] If you’re experiencing depression, you’re not alone. […] That’s why it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. […] To help diagnose depression, your health care provider may use a physical exam, lab tests, or a mental health evaluation. These results will help identify various treatment options that best fit your situation. […] If you feel depressed, make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as you can.
  • #1 Depression Diagnosis, Tests, & Treatments
    https://www.webmd.com/depression/understanding-depression-treatment
    Although common, depression is often ignored or wrongly diagnosed and left untreated. This can be life-threatening; major depression, in particular, has a high suicide rate. […] To diagnose depression, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and family history. They may want you to fill out a questionnaire about your symptoms. You may get medical tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms, such as a lack of certain nutrients, underactive thyroid or hormone levels, or reactions to drugs (either prescription or recreational) or alcohol. […] As with any chronic illness, getting an early medical diagnosis and medical treatment may help make depression symptoms less intense or last a shorter time. It may also reduce the likelihood of a relapse.
  • #1 #115 Geriatric Depression: Diagnosis, Antidepressants, and More – The Curbsiders
    https://thecurbsiders.com/curbsiders-podcast/115-geriatric-depression-diagnosis-antidepressants-and-more
    If relapse occurs then Dr. Popeo recommends at least two years of antidepressant therapy after recovery. […] If a patient has a third episode of major depression, then the chance of a fourth episode is about 100 percent so lifelong therapy is warranted. […] Listeners will diagnose depression and dementia in older adults and develop a practical approach to the management of depression and dementia in older adults. […] After listening to this episode listeners will… Diagnose depression in older adults. […] Assess the risk of suicide and ensure patient safety in older adults with depression. […] Counsel patients about the use of antidepressants. […] Titrate and monitor the effect of antidepressant medications.
  • #1 Psychiatry.org – What Is Depression?
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression
    Moreover, a physical examination should be performed to screen for underlying medical conditions that may mimic depression such as hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, neurological problems and drug or alcohol use. […] The evaluating medical professional will take all of these factors into account as they formulate a diagnosis and recommend an individualized treatment plan. […] Depression is among the most treatable of mental disorders. Between 70% and 90% percent of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment. […] Psychiatrists usually recommend that patients continue to take medication for six or more months after the depressive symptoms have improved. […] For certain people at risk for example, those who have experienced multiple episodes of depression in the past, or those with a strong family history of depression longer-term maintenance treatment may be suggested to decrease the risk of future episodes.
  • #1 Depression: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9290-depression
    Depression is a common mental health condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and changes in how you think, sleep, eat and act. […] Depression is treatable usually with talk therapy, medication or both. Seeking medical help as soon as you have symptoms is essential. […] Healthcare providers diagnose depression based on a thorough understanding of your symptoms, medical history and mental health history. They may diagnose you with a specific type of depression, such as seasonal affective disorder or postpartum depression, based on the context of your symptoms. […] To receive a diagnosis of depression, you must have five depression symptoms every day, nearly all day, for at least two weeks. […] Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Approximately 80% to 90% of people with depression who seek treatment eventually respond well to treatment. […] If you have symptoms of depression, see a healthcare provider or mental health professional. They can give you an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatment options.
  • #1 Depression: Screening and Diagnosis | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2018/1015/p508.html
    Depression affects an estimated 8% of persons in the United States and accounts for more than $210 billion in health care costs annually. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and American Academy of Family Physicians recommend screening for depression in the general adult population. […] All screening should be implemented with adequate systems in place to ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate follow-up. […] If screening is positive for possible depression, the diagnosis should be confirmed using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed., criteria. […] Screening for depression is the cornerstone of early recognition, diagnosis, and management. […] The USPSTF recommends screening for depression in the general adult population. Screening must be implemented with adequate systems in place to ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate follow-up. […] When screening is positive for possible depression, the diagnosis should be confirmed using DSM-5 criteria. […] It is reasonable to obtain basic laboratory testing when confirming the diagnosis of depression, especially in older patients, to exclude medical conditions that may mimic depression.
  • #1 First Blood Test to Diagnose Depression in Adults – News Center
    https://news.feinberg.northwestern.edu/2014/09/16/redei-blood-test/
    The first blood test to diagnose major depression in adults has been developed by Northwestern Medicine scientists, a breakthrough approach that provides the first objective, scientific diagnosis for depression. The test identifies depression by measuring the levels of nine RNA blood markers. […] This clearly indicates that you can have a blood-based laboratory test for depression, providing a scientific diagnosis in the same way someone is diagnosed with high blood pressure or high cholesterol. […] The current method of diagnosing depression is subjective and based on non-specific symptoms such as poor mood, fatigue and change in appetite, all of which can apply to a large number of mental or physical problems. […] The new blood test will allow physicians for the first time to use lab tests to determine what treatments will be most useful for individual patients.
  • #1 Major depressive disorder: hypothesis, mechanism, prevention and treatment | Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-024-01738-y
    Several hypothesis were developed to explain MDD pathogenesis pathogenic including (i) the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction hypothesis, (ii) the monoamine hypothesis, (iii) the inflammatory hypothesis, (iv) the genetic and epigenetic anomaly hypothesis, (v) the structural and functional brain remodeling hypothesis, and (vi) the social psychological hypothesis. […] However, none of these hypotheses alone can fully explain the pathological basis of MDD, while many mechanisms proposed by these hypotheses interact with each other. […] In recent years, great progress has been made in identifying novel pharmacological therapies, diagnostic criteria, and nonpharmacological preventive measures for MDD, initiating related clinical trials. […] In this review, we summarize the latest research on the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, mechanism, and pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment of MDD as well as related clinical experiments.
  • #1 First blood test to diagnose depression in adults | ScienceDaily
    https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/09/140917121229.htm
    The first blood test to diagnose major depression in adults has been developed, providing the first objective, scientific diagnosis for depression. […] The current method of diagnosing depression is subjective and based on non-specific symptoms such as poor mood, fatigue and change in appetite, all of which can apply to a large number of mental or physical problems. […] This study brings us much closer to having laboratory tests that can be used in diagnosis and treatment selection. […] The new blood test will allow physicians for the first time to use lab tests to determine what treatments will be most useful for individual patients. […] A biologically based test has the potential to provide a more timely and accurate diagnosis. […] The blood test predicts who will benefit from the cognitive behavioral therapy based on a distinct pattern or fingerprint of the levels of the nine marker levels at baseline in patients who recover from depression as a result of the therapy. […] These three markers move us towards the ultimate goal of identifying predisposition to depression, even in the absence of a current depressive episode.
  • #1 Understanding the Diagnosis of Depression: A Comprehensive Guide
    https://therapygroupdc.com/therapist-dc-blog/understanding-the-diagnosis-of-depression-key-insights-and-steps/
    Understanding Depression: Depression is a serious mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities. […] Diagnostic Process: An accurate diagnosis involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional. This includes assessing symptoms, medical history, and possibly conducting physical exams to rule out other medical conditions. […] Importance of Early Intervention: Recognizing symptoms early and seeking professional help can prevent the progression of depression and improve mental health outcomes. An accurate diagnosis and timely treatment are essential steps towards recovery. […] How is Depression Diagnosed?: Diagnosing depression involves a multi-faceted approach by mental health professionals, who utilize various methods to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
  • #1 Mental Health Conditions: Depression and Anxiety | Overviews of Diseases/Conditions | Tips From Former Smokers | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html
    Depression is more than just feeling down or having a bad day. When a sad mood lasts for a long time and interferes with normal, everyday functioning, you may be depressed. Symptoms of depression include: Feeling sad or anxious often or all the time […] The following information is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis of major depression and cannot take the place of seeing a mental health professional. If you think you are depressed talk with your doctor or a mental health professional immediately. This is especially important if your symptoms are getting worse or affecting your daily activities. […] Many helpful treatments for depression are available. Treatment for depression can help reduce symptoms and shorten how long the depression lasts. Treatment can include getting therapy and/or taking medications. Your doctor or a qualified mental health professional can help you determine what treatment is best for you. […] Some people who are depressed may think about hurting themselves or committing suicide (taking their own life). If you or someone you know is having thoughts about hurting themselves or committing suicide please seek immediate help.
  • #1 Psychiatry.org – What Is Depression?
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression
    It is important to let your healthcare professional know if you have concerns about your mediation(s) or experience any side effects of the medication. […] If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, a first step is to see your family physician or psychiatrist. Talk about your concerns and request a thorough evaluation.
  • #2 U.S. Depression Rates Reach New Highs
    https://news.gallup.com/poll/505745/depression-rates-reach-new-highs.aspx
    The percentage of U.S. adults who report having been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lifetime has reached 29.0%, nearly 10 percentage points higher than in 2015. […] The percentage of Americans who currently have or are being treated for depression has also increased, to 17.8%, up about seven points over the same period. […] Over one-third of women (36.7%) now report having been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lifetime, compared with 20.4% of men, and their rate has risen at nearly twice the rate of men since 2017. […] Women (23.8%) and adults aged 18 to 29 (24.6%) also have the highest rates of current depression or treatment for depression. […] Lifetime depression rates are also climbing fast among Black and Hispanic adults and have now surpassed those of White respondents. […] Clinical depression had been slowly rising in the U.S. prior to the COVID-19 pandemic but has jumped notably in its wake. […] Daily experiences of sadness, worry and anger — all of which are closely related to depression — are highest for those under 30 and those with lower income levels.
  • #2 Depression Workup: Approach Considerations, Screening Tests, Laboratory Studies to Rule Out Organic Causes
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/286759-workup
    Depression screening tests can be valuable, with the most widely one used being the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). It is important to understand, however, that the results obtained from the use of any depression screening or rating scales do not diagnose depression and may be imperfect in any population, especially in elderly patients. […] The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for depression in the general adult population, including older adults and pregnant and postpartum women. It is important to understand that the results obtained from the use of any depression rating scales are imperfect in any population, especially the geriatric population. […] Depression is a clinical diagnosis, based on the history and physical findings. No diagnostic laboratory tests are available to diagnose major depressive disorder, but focused laboratory studies may be useful to exclude potential medical illnesses that may present as major depressive disorder.
  • #2 Depression | NAMI
    https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/depression/
    Depressive disorder, frequently referred to simply as depression, is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch. It’s a serious mental health condition that requires understanding and medical care. Left untreated, depression can be devastating for those who have it and their families. Fortunately, with early detection, diagnosis and a treatment plan consisting of medication, psychotherapy and healthy lifestyle choices, many people can and do get better. […] To be diagnosed with depressive disorder, a person must have experienced a depressive episode lasting longer than two weeks. The symptoms of a depressive episode include: Loss of interest or loss of pleasure in all activities, Change in appetite or weight, Sleep disturbances, Feeling agitated or feeling slowed down, Fatigue, Feelings of low self-worth, guilt or shortcomings, Difficulty concentrating or making decisions, Suicidal thoughts or intentions.
  • #2 How Depression Is Diagnosed According to the DSM-5
    https://www.verywellmind.com/dsm-5-and-diagnosis-of-depression-1066916
    To be diagnosed with major depression, a person’s symptoms must fit the criteria outlined in the DSM-5. Feelings of sadness, low mood, and loss of interest in their usual activities must mark a change from a person’s previous level of functioning and have persisted for at least two weeks. These feelings must also be accompanied by at least five other common symptoms of depression, including: Change in appetite, losing or gaining weight; Sleeping too much or not sleeping well (insomnia); Fatigue and low energy most days; Feeling worthless, guilty, and hopeless; An inability to focus and concentrate that may interfere with daily tasks at home, work, or school; Movements that are unusually slow or agitated (a change which is often noticeable to others); Thinking about death and dying; suicidal ideation or suicide attempts. […] The symptoms must not be a result of substance abuse or another medical condition. Doctors must rule out other mental health conditions that can have a depression component but are not strictly a major depressive disorder (e.g., bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder).
  • #2 How to Diagnose Depression in Adults: DSM-5 Criteria – MEDvidi
    https://medvidi.com/blog/how-is-depression-diagnosed-in-adults
    Depression is a mental illness that affects every part of a persons life. There is no single 100% definitive test for depression, so it is especially important to turn to a professional if you suspect having any form of this disorder. Mental health providers will use different techniques to evaluate your mental state and will support you throughout your recovery. […] This article describes what symptoms should be taken as warning signs and the diagnosis of depression. […] According to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders issued by the American Psychiatric Association), they can be the following: […] A major depressive disorder diagnosis is based on the presence of at least five symptoms that last at least two weeks, most of the day every day. One of the symptoms present should be a depressed mood or loss of interest in daily activities.
  • #2 Depression: Screening & Assessment | CAMH
    https://www.camh.ca/en/professionals/treating-conditions-and-disorders/depression/depression—screening-and-assessment
    Symptoms of major depressive disorder include: sleep disturbances, reduced interest or pleasure, unrealistic guilt, mental and physical fatigue, distractibility, memory disturbance, indecisiveness, changes in appetite, psychomotor retardation or agitation, and suicidal thoughts, plans, or behaviors. […] Use the two-question quick screen for patients who have risk factors for major depressive disorder. Answering yes to either question indicates the need for a more detailed assessment. […] A brief questionnaire such as the free, online Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) aids diagnosis and assesses severity of the depression. As a screening tool, the PHQ-9 can assist in diagnosis, and also serve as a symptom severity tracker to help assess the effectiveness of the treatment plan. […] The PHQ can be used for diagnosis, assessing severity and monitoring treatment response.
  • #2 Diagnosis – Depression in adults – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/depression-in-adults/diagnosis/
    If you experience symptoms of depression for most of the day, every day for more than 2 weeks, you should seek help from a GP. […] The main way a GP will tell if you have depression is by asking you questions about your general health and how the way you’re feeling is affecting your daily life, both mentally and physically. […] A GP may use a questionnaire to assess your symptoms. […] Describing your symptoms and how they’re affecting you will help the GP determine whether you have depression and how severe it is.
  • #2 Psychiatry.org – What Is Depression?
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression
    Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious mental disorder that negatively affects how you feel, think, act, and perceive the world. […] Nearly three in ten adults (29%) have been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives and about 18% are currently experiencing depression, according to a 2023 national survey. […] While depression can occur at any time and at any age, on average it can first appear during ones late teens to mid-20s. […] However, a diagnosis of depression requires that the above symptoms occur for most of the day, nearly every day, for more than two weeks, along with a clear change in day-to-day functioning (e.g., in work/school performance, personal relationships, and hobbies). […] To diagnose depression, a healthcare professional will conduct a thorough diagnostic evaluation that includes a comprehensive interview to discuss your symptoms in addition to your personal, medical and family histories.
  • #2 Screening Tests for Depression: Overview, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Beck Depression Inventory
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1859039-overview
    The cutoff score is 26 for the diagnosis of major (moderate to severe) depression. […] The sensitivity of the MDI algorithms is between 86% and 92%, while the specificity is between 82% and 86%. […] The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was specifically developed for use in geriatric populations, originally as a 30-item scale. […] The questions elicit only yes or no responses, making comprehension easier compared with multiple-choice answers. […] A score of greater than or equal to 2 is a positive screen for depression. […] The Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD) is designed for use in elderly patients with underlying cognitive deficits. […] A total score of 10 indicate probable major depression and greater than 18 indicate definite major depression. […] Depression is a major public health issue, causing significant suffering and disability in the United States and worldwide. […] The use of depression screening instruments can be a simple, efficient method to provide such screening in a sensitive and specific manner.
  • #2 Depression – Mental Health Disorders – MSD Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/mood-disorders/depression
    Doctors base the diagnosis on symptoms. […] A doctor is usually able to diagnose depression based on symptoms. Doctors use specific lists of symptoms (criteria) to diagnose the different types of depressive disorders. To help distinguish depression from ordinary changes in mood, doctors determine whether the symptoms are causing significant distress or are impairing the person’s ability to function. […] In older adults, depression may be difficult to notice, especially if they do not work or have little social interaction. […] A doctor may ask people to fill out a standardized questionnaires to help identify depression and determine how severe it is, but they cannot be used alone to diagnose depression. […] No test can confirm depression. However, laboratory tests may help a doctor determine whether depression is caused by a hormonal or other physical disorder. […] A thorough neurologic examination is done to check for Parkinson disease, which causes some of the same symptoms.
  • #2 Depression Diagnosis, Tests, & Treatments
    https://www.webmd.com/depression/understanding-depression-treatment
    Although common, depression is often ignored or wrongly diagnosed and left untreated. This can be life-threatening; major depression, in particular, has a high suicide rate. […] To diagnose depression, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and family history. They may want you to fill out a questionnaire about your symptoms. You may get medical tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms, such as a lack of certain nutrients, underactive thyroid or hormone levels, or reactions to drugs (either prescription or recreational) or alcohol. […] As with any chronic illness, getting an early medical diagnosis and medical treatment may help make depression symptoms less intense or last a shorter time. It may also reduce the likelihood of a relapse.
  • #2 Is There a Depression Blood Test?
    https://www.verywellmind.com/is-there-a-blood-test-for-depression-1066915
    Your doctor may order certain lab tests if you have symptoms of depression […] Promising research is being done, but the reality is that we don’t yet have a simple blood test that can diagnose depression. […] Today, doctors and mental health professionals diagnose depression by asking questions about your symptoms, using psychological assessments, and assessing your condition. […] While there is no single, definitive test for depression, your doctor can use blood tests to rule out medical conditions that may cause symptoms of depression or even be an underlying cause of the condition. […] Once a diagnosis is made, your provider can use all of this information, as well as findings from your primary care doctor, to inform the creation of a treatment plan. […] Blood tests for depression generally focus on checking your overall health and ruling out medical conditions that may contribute to depressive symptoms.
  • #2 Depression Diagnosis and Treatment | Neuro Wellness Spa
    https://neurowellnessspa.com/depression-diagnosis/
    Depression, or major depressive disorder (MDD), is a serious mental health condition that can cause symptoms like persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, and changes in appetite, sleep, and concentration. Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact daily functioning and overall quality of life. Nearly 30% of adults will experience depression at some point, yet many suffer in silence without seeking help or receiving a depression diagnosis. Alarmingly, roughly 60% of adults with depression seek professional treatment. […] Diagnosing depression can be particularly challenging due to a variety of factors. Here are some of the key challenges: Wide Range of Symptoms: Depression can manifest in many different ways, from psychological symptoms like persistent sadness and irritability to physical symptoms such as changes in appetite and sleep disturbances. The DSM-5 lists numerous symptom combinations for major depressive disorder, which adds to the complexity of creating a consistent diagnostic profile.
  • #2 Depression in adults – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice
    https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/55
    There is no subthreshold (minor) depression diagnosis in DSM-5-TR, but the label has sometimes been applied to diagnose a patient with two to four depressive symptoms, including depressed mood or anhedonia, lasting longer than 2 weeks. […] Persistent depressive disorder (termed dysthymic disorder within ICD-11) is characterised by at least 2 years of a depressed mood for most of the day, for more days than not, for at least 2 years. […] Full details […] Key diagnostic factors include presence of risk factors, depressed mood, anhedonia, and functional impairment. […] Other diagnostic factors include weight change, libido changes, sleep disturbance, changes in movement, low energy, excessive guilt, poor concentration, suicidal ideation, somatic symptoms, bipolar disorder excluded, substance abuse/medication side effects excluded, medical illness excluded, and schizophrenia excluded. […] Diagnostic investigations include clinical diagnosis, metabolic panel, FBC, thyroid function tests, Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale, and Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia.
  • #2 Depression in adults – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice US
    https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-us/55
    There is no subthreshold (minor) depression diagnosis in DSM-5-TR, but the label has sometimes been applied to diagnose a patient with two to four depressive symptoms, including depressed mood or anhedonia, lasting longer than 2 weeks. […] Persistent depressive disorder (termed „dysthymic disorder” within ICD-11) is characterized by at least 2 years of a depressed mood for most of the day, for more days than not, for at least 2 years. […] Full details […] Key diagnostic factors include depressed mood, anhedonia, and functional impairment. […] Other diagnostic factors include weight change, libido changes, sleep disturbance, changes in movement, low energy, excessive guilt, poor concentration, suicidal ideation, somatic symptoms, and exclusion of bipolar disorder, substance abuse, medical illness, and schizophrenia. […] Diagnostic tests include clinical diagnosis, metabolic panel, CBC, thyroid function tests, Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale, and Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia.
  • #2 Depression: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9290-depression
    Depression is a common mental health condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and changes in how you think, sleep, eat and act. […] Depression is treatable usually with talk therapy, medication or both. Seeking medical help as soon as you have symptoms is essential. […] Healthcare providers diagnose depression based on a thorough understanding of your symptoms, medical history and mental health history. They may diagnose you with a specific type of depression, such as seasonal affective disorder or postpartum depression, based on the context of your symptoms. […] To receive a diagnosis of depression, you must have five depression symptoms every day, nearly all day, for at least two weeks. […] Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Approximately 80% to 90% of people with depression who seek treatment eventually respond well to treatment. […] If you have symptoms of depression, see a healthcare provider or mental health professional. They can give you an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatment options.
  • #2 Archived: Screening for Depression in Adults | United States Preventive Services Taskforce
    https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/depression-in-adults-screening
    The USPSTF recommends screening for depression in the general adult population, including pregnant and postpartum women. Screening should be implemented with adequate systems in place to ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate follow-up. […] The USPSTF found convincing evidence that screening improves the accurate identification of adult patients with depression in primary care settings, including pregnant and postpartum women. […] The USPSTF found adequate evidence that programs combining depression screening with adequate support systems in place improve clinical outcomes (ie, reduction or remission of depression symptoms) in adults, including pregnant and postpartum women. […] The USPSTF concludes with at least moderate certainty that there is a moderate net benefit to screening for depression in adults, including older adults, who receive care in clinical practices that have adequate systems in place to ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate follow-up after screening. […] The USPSTF also concludes with at least moderate certainty that there is a moderate net benefit to screening for depression in pregnant and postpartum women who receive care in clinical practices that have CBT or other evidence-based counseling available after screening.
  • #2 Functional Biomarkers of Depression: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Pathophysiology | Neuropsychopharmacology
    https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2011151
    Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a heterogeneous illness for which there are currently no effective methods to objectively assess severity, endophenotypes, or response to treatment. […] Diagnosis and treatment of MDD is based on relatively subjective assessments of diverse symptoms representing multiple endophenotypes. […] Despite decades of searching, a non-invasive, quantitative clinical test to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of MDD remains elusive. […] Thus, a viable alternative to the single-biomarker approach could be the development of biomarker panels that aim to profile a diverse array of peripheral/serum growth factors, cytokines, hormones, and metabolic markers, to provide coverage of multiple biological abnormalities that contribute to the heterogeneity of MDD, as well as treatment response.
  • #2 Understanding the Diagnosis of Depression: A Comprehensive Guide
    https://therapygroupdc.com/therapist-dc-blog/understanding-the-diagnosis-of-depression-key-insights-and-steps/
    It’s important to note that there is no single medical test to definitively diagnose depression. Instead, mental health professionals look at a range of symptoms and their impact on a person’s body, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. […] By understanding these diagnostic steps, individuals and their families can better navigate the process of seeking help, ensuring that the treatment plan is tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. Early and accurate diagnosis is a critical step in managing depression and improving mental health outcomes. […] The clinical diagnosis of depression, often referred to as major depressive disorder, involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. […] To obtain a diagnosis for depression, it is important to consult a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
  • #2 How to Get a Depression Diagnosis — Talkspace
    https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/depression/diagnosis/
    If you suspect you have depression or a loved one has suggested you might be depressed, dont wait to get help. […] You can access support through Talkspace, where a licensed provider will evaluate your symptoms, listen to your concerns, and, if appropriate, diagnose you with depression or another condition. […] If youre diagnosed with any type of depression, know that you are not alone. […] In most cases, depression is treatable with the right help. […] Therapy for depression can be very restorative. […] Youll learn to anticipate, recognize, and cope with your depressive symptoms more effectively. […] If youre experiencing depression at work, in your interpersonal relationships, or feel like your depression is to the point where its affecting your ability to perform well in your life, consider reaching out to a mental health professional and scheduling a psychological evaluation.