Diagnosis of depression can be tricky. Most of the time, the symptoms of depression can go unnoticed until the patient self-reports it. Depression can also be confused with other medical illnesses. For example, weight loss and fatigue accompany many conditions, but they can also occur with depression. Your healthcare provider (HCP) may want to screen you for depression if some of the following factors are observed in your medical history:
- Family or personal history of depression
- Multiple medical problems
- Physical symptoms that have no clear medical cause
- Frequent visits to primary care departments
- Once you are referred to screening for it, you may undergo the following tests
1. Physical Examination
The HCP measures your height, and weight, and checks for vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature.
2. Laboratory Tests
You might need to undergo some blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) or thyroid test to determine if it is functioning normally.
3. Psychiatric Evaluation
Your HCP might refer you to a mental health specialist who will ask you several questions about your thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns. You will be asked to explain your symptoms, and whether you’ve had similar episodes in the past. You might need to fill out a written questionnaire, which will give an exact idea of your mental condition.
Take a quick Self-Assessment Test for it to know if you are suffering from Depression
Last Reviewed on: July 24, 2014
Reviewed By: Dr. Akshya Vasudev, MBBS, MD, MRCPsych, PG Cert Med Edu
