Proper diagnosis of depression or any other illness is the key to effective treatment and cure. If you suspect that you may be suffering from depression, just ask yourself two simple questions and answer them carefully and objectively.
1. In the last month, have you been lost interest or pleasure in doing things which you previously loved to do? 2. In the last month, have you been feeling down, depressed or hopeless?
If you answered 'Yes' to any of the above question, you might need help. You should undergo a more detailed assessment. You can do it yourself if you feel shy or have reservations of seeing an expert at this stage. But you must not ignore it. It might be appropriate for you to learn more about depression. There are many types of depression. You might be suffering from a mild depression which if left untreated might blow-up into a more serious kind of depression and may affect your life adversely. If, however, you answered 'Yes' to both the above questions, it is strongly suggested that you see a health care professional immediately.
There are many different tests and criteria for diagnosis of depression. These most common tests are:
Hamilton Rating Scale of Depression (Ham-D-7) Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) Patient Health Questionnaire - PHQ-9
There are a few things that you need to remember:
Depression is an illness and has to be treated. It will not just go away. Depression can be cured by proper treatment. You are not alone. Millions of people across the world suffer from depression.
So, pick yourself up. Don't just lie down hopelessly. FIGHT IT!
About the Author
Roopam Dhawan is a health enthusiast and writes for http://www.health-bible.com. More information on depression can be had on http://www.health-bible.com/mental_health/depression.php