Depression Risk Assessment
Millions of people in the U.S. suffer from depression. More women than men suffer from this health condition. Major depression is an illness that affects a person's body, feelings, thoughts, and behavior.
Certain things can trigger an episode of depression. They include a stressful life event, genetics, physical illness, medicines, substance abuse, or hormone levels. Any one of these factors, or a combination of them, can make depression more likely. The following questionnaire can help you assess your risk for depression.
Your results
You have told us that there are no major risk factors in your current lifestyle and circumstances that would put you at risk of developing depression.
If you are concerned that you may be depressed, talk with your healthcare provider or a trained mental health professional.
You have told us that you have significant risk factors in your current lifestyle and circumstances that put you at higher risk of developing depression.
Having symptoms of depression does not necessarily mean you are depressed. Other conditions or illnesses can cause similar symptoms. It does mean that you should talk with your healthcare provider or a trained mental health professional who can diagnose your condition.
The answers you have given us show you are at risk for suicide.
If you have not already done so, talk with your healthcare provider, a family member, someone at a mental health clinic, or other supportive person as soon as you can. Find out where you can get help. Don't ignore this!
If you are thinking of harming yourself now, and have a plan and a means to do it, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). It is open 24 hours a day, every day. They speak English and Spanish. Or visit the lifeline’s website at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. This resource gives you crisis intervention right away. It also offers information on local resources. It is free and confidential.
Put emergency phone numbers in your phone or keep them in your wallet or purse. These include a trusted friend or relative, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and your counselor or healthcare provider.
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional health care. Always talk with a healthcare provider for advice about your health. Only your healthcare provider can diagnose depression.