Clinical Depression Test

There are many types of clinical depression with various combinations of physical, behavioral and emotional symptoms. It is a serious medical condition that affects the way you think, feel and act. It affects your body, behavior and mood. It affects people of all ages, cultures and ethnicity. Every year, more than 17 million men and women experience clinical depression. Though it is common, it is often undiagnosed and untreated. In order to understand the exact type and level of the condition, clinical depression test is essential.

Clinical Depression Diagnosis Methods

If you experience sleep problems, changes in appetite, headache, digestive problem, stomach ache or decreased energy, they could be clinical depression symptoms. Many times something like omega 3 can really be helpful. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that you enjoyed once, trouble in concentrating and making decisions, neglecting personal appearance and responsibilities are some other symptoms of clinical depression.  If you feel sad persistently and have empty mood that lasts for two or more weeks, feel hopeless, guilty or worthless and cry without any reason, then they can be emotional clinical depression symptoms. Another remedy that you can try on your are B12 shots. Physical, medical and psychological evaluation is essential to make appropriate clinical depression diagnosis.

Physical Exam

Physical exam is the most common clinical depression test. The doctor may examine your blood pressure, heart rate and temperature. He/she may also examine your abdomen and check for physical clinical depression symptoms.

Lab Tests

Your doctor may require you to undergo blood test or thyroid test to ensure whether your system is functioning properly.

Psychological Test

Psychological test can help the mental health provider to understand the signs of depression. The doctor will talk to you about your feelings, thoughts and behavioral patterns. He/she will ask about the symptoms and how long they persist. He/she will also confirm whether you have had experienced similar episodes.  You will need to discuss with the doctor and tell him/her if you have any suicidal thoughts. You may also need to fill out a written questionnaire provided by the doctor, which will help him/her to diagnose the exact condition.

Why Clinical Depression Test is Important

Clinical depression test is important, as some other conditions may also contribute to your symptoms.  Accurate clinical depression diagnosis can help the doctor to determine the appropriate treatment. The doctor takes various tests to determine whether your symptoms are caused by conditions like bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, dysthymia, cyclothymia, seasonal affective disorder, psychotic depression or postpartum depression.

How to Prepare for Depression Test

Before seeing the doctor, you need to be prepared for the test. Writing down the symptoms you are experiencing can help you tell the doctor without missing anything. You can also write down any major changes that have happened in your life recently or events that have caused stress.  You may want to ask several questions to the doctor. To avoid forgetting anything, write down all the questions you want to ask. Make a list of all medications, including vitamin or mineral supplement you are taking. It is advisable to take a family member or a friend with you.