Rate Your Risk for Depression

WebMD Health Tool

Could You Be Depressed?

Depression affects people differently. Some people cry a lot and feel sad. Others seem angry, irritable, or anxious. For others, depression shows itself in vague physical problems like constipation, muscle aches, headaches . Take a minute to think about how you have felt over the past two weeks. Which of these statements describe you?

This tool cannot diagnose depression. This tool is not meant for anyone under the age of 18. Only your health care provider can diagnose depression.

I feel sad or down most of the time.
Yes or No

I've lost interest in the activities I used to enjoy.
Yes or No

I feel tired almost every day.
Yes or No

I have problems sleeping. I'm either sleeping too much or staying awake at night.
Yes or No

My appetite has changed. I'm not eating enough, or I'm eating too much.
Yes or No

I have trouble concentrating.
Yes or No

My friends say I'm acting different. I'm either anxious and restless or lethargic.
Yes or No

I feel worthless or hopeless.
Yes or No

I'm having frequent headaches, stomach problems, muscle pain, or back problems.
Yes or No

I find myself thinking a lot about dying or suicide .
Yes or No

Could You Be Depressed? Results:

Lower Risk

You replied that you are feeling four or fewer of the common symptoms of depression. In general, people experiencing depression have five or more common symptoms of the condition. But every individual is unique. If you are concerned about depression, talk with your doctor.

Depression shows up in many different ways. People often lose interest in favorite activities and feel sad or hopeless. They may also have sleep problems, gain or lose weight, feel irritable or angry, or be in physical pain for unexplained reasons. Feeling guilty, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating are also common signs of depression. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat depression, and more than 80% of people treated for depression improve within a year.

Higher Risk

You replied that you are feeling five or more of the common symptoms of depression. You may be at risk for major depression. Feeling five or more of these symptoms in the same two-week period indicates that you may be at risk for major depression. Talk with your doctor.

Depression shows up in many different ways. People often lose interest in favorite activities, have sleep problems, gain or lose weight, feel irritable or angry, or are in physical pain for unexplained reasons. Feeling guilty, anxious, or having difficulty concentrating are also common signs of depression. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat depression, and more than 80% of people treated for depression improve within a year.

* If you have recurring thoughts of death or suicide, call your doctor or any qualified health care provider right away. If you need immediate assistance or think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.

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Last Editorial Review: 11/28/2005

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