These depression tests will give you a much more accurate picture of whether or not you are suffering with depression. If you take one of the tests for depression you should carry it with you to your doctor for discussion with your doctor. The doctor will likely run further tests for depression and then develop a treatment program for you.
Beck Depression Tests
The Beck tests for depression are commonly used by those in the mental health field to make diagnoses. There are 21 questions on the Beck tests for depression. These questions are used to determine if you have the symptoms the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists as being closely associated with depression. These questions typically only deal with the last couple weeks of your life. After the test is scored, the total describes whether or not you are likely depressed. These depression tests tend to open the eyes of many people who do not realize they may be depressed. It is important to know when you are depressed so that you can deal with it more effectively and get appropriate depression treatments.
Goldberg Depression Tests
The Goldberg tests for depression are currently the most popular. This test is more like a survey, with 18 questions and variable level responses. This test covers only how you have felt over the last week. You are given a final score that indicates whether or not you have enough symptoms to fall in the depressed range. This test is often repeated during the course of your treatment to see how your depression is changing and whether your depression treatments are successful. This test has a scoring margin of error of up to five points in either direction. If you improve by more than five points your current treatments are likely working. If you do not improve over time, it is likely that your doctor will want to try other depression treatments.
How To Deal With Depression Tip #1
Fish oil supplements. These can be an effective anti-depressant. Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids that have been found to suppress feelings of depression. Omega-3 fatty acids can help the brain replenish its supply of DHA fatty acids, which are needed to keep the brain healthy.
How To Deal With Depression Tip #2
B vitamins and folic acid. According to research, the B vitamins are another natural cure for depression. Research has discovered folic acid deficiencies in adults who have depression. Low folic acid levels can cause one to experience bouts of depression. Additionally, low folic acid levels can slow your body’s response to depression medications.
How To Deal With Depression Tip #3
Exercise. A good workout can help alleviate depression. Exercise acts as a mood enhancer. Exercise can enhance the effects of depression medications by helping the body absorb medications better. And exercise encourages the production of endorphins, the “happy mood” chemical.