What is depression screening?
A depression screening, also called a depression test, helps find out if you have depression. Depression is a common, though serious, illness. Everyone feels sad at times, but depression is different than normal sadness or grief. Depression can affect how you think, feel, and behave. Depression makes it hard to function at home and work. You may lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. Some people with depression feel worthless and are at risk for harming themselves.
There are different types of depression. The most common types are:
Major depression, which causes persistent feelings of sadness, anger, and/or frustration. Major depression lasts for several weeks or longer.
Persistent depressive disorder, which causes depressive symptoms that last two years or more.
Postpartum depression. Many new mothers feel sad, but postpartum depression causes extreme sadness and anxiety after childbirth. It can make it hard for mothers to care for themselves and/or their babies.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This form of depression usually happens in winter when there is less sunlight. Most people with SAD feel better in the spring and summer.
Psychotic depression occurs with psychosis, a more serious psychiatric disorder. Psychosis can cause people to lose touch with reality.
Bipolar disorder formerly called manic depression. People with bipolar disorder have alternating episodes of mania (extreme highs or euphoria) and depression.
Fortunately, most people with depression feel better after treatment with medicine and/or talk therapy.
Other names: depression test
