Depression: Screening and Assessment

Question 1

What 2 questions can you use to screen for depression?

Answer 1

During the last month, have you often been bothered by feeling down, depressed, or hopeless?

During the last month, have you often been bothered by having little interest or pleasure in doing things?

Question 2

What are the 2 tools used to assess the degree of depression?

Answer 2

Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD)

Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)

Question 3

What is the big 3 symptom triad for depression?

Answer 3

Low mood
Low energy
Low interest (anhedonia)

Question 4

What are other symptoms (outside the big 3) of depression?

Answer 4

Reduced concentration/attention
Decreased self-esteem and confidence
Feelings of guilt and unworthiness
Bleak and pessimistic views of the future
Ideas or acts of self-harm/suicide
Disturbed sleep
Diminished appetite and weight loss
Psychomotor agitation or retardation
Marked loss of libido

Question 5

What are the diagnostic criteria for a mild depressive episode?

Answer 5

At least 2 of the big 3
At least 2 other symptoms
None of the symptoms present to an intense degree
Minimum length of Sx 2 weeks
Patient may find symptoms distressing but able to continue work/social functioning

Question 6

What are the diagnostic criteria for a moderate depressive episode?

Answer 6

At least 2 of the big 3
At least 3 other symptoms (ideally 4)
Minimum duration 2 weeks
Considerable difficulty continuing normal work/social functioning

Question 7

What are the diagnostic criteria for a severe depressive episode?

Answer 7

All big 3 Sx present
At least 4 other Sx present, some in severe intensity
Minimum 2 weeks but if especially severe can make early diagnosis
Can display psychotic Sx
Show severe distress/agitation