Are You Depressed?

People who are battling a serious illness or loss are especially prone to depression. Caregivers and family members are also at risk.

The chemicals that keep our brain functioning can become depleted during times of stress. Depression is the result of a chemical depletion and is a legitimate medical problem- not a spiritual problem.

Many depressed people suffer needlessly because they don’t know that they are depressed and that depression is almost always treatable. This test, while not conclusive, may help indicate if you are experiencing depression.

Choose the number that best describes how you are feeling at this time. There are 14 questions to answer.

Progress:

Low Energy 1 2 3 4 5 High Energy:

Difficulty sleeping or sleep all the time 1 2 3 4 5 Uninterrupted sleeping patterns:

No desire to be involved in activities 1 2 3 4 5 Very involved in activities:

Aches and pains 1 2 3 4 5 Feel great:

Loss of appetite 1 2 3 4 5 Enjoy eating:

Sad 1 2 3 4 5 Joyful:

Despairing and hopeless 1 2 3 4 5 Hopeful and confident:

Irritable (low frustration tolerance) 1 2 3 4 5 Pleasant (high frustration tolerance):

Withdrawn 1 2 3 4 5 Involved:

Mental anguish 1 2 3 4 5 Peace of mind:

Low sense of self-worth 1 2 3 4 5 High sense of self worth:

Pessimistic (about the future) 1 2 3 4 5 Optimistic (about the future):

Negative (perceive most circumstances as negative or even harmful) 1 2 3 4 5 Positive (perceive most circumstances as opportunities for growth):

Self-destructive ("I and others would be better off if I weren’t here.") 1 2 3 4 5 Self preserving ("Glad I’m here."):

If your score indicates that you may be experiencing depression, please talk with your doctor or a counselor immediately. Most depression is treatable.