Depression Self-Test: Mastering Methods to Overcome Depression

In today's fast-paced world, depression seems to be an unavoidable topic. You may have heard of people around you feeling down due to excessive stress, even to the point where it affects their daily lives. Depression, often referred to as a "cold of the soul," is not as distant as we might think. According to the latest data from the World Health Organization, over 380 million people worldwide are affected by depression, and in the United States, 1 in 12 people may experience depressive symptoms at some point in their lives. Depression is not a rare condition; it is like a "cold of the soul," and if not taken seriously, it can significantly impact our lives.

What is Depression?

Depression is a common mental health issue, and it is more than just "feeling down." People with depression often experience persistent sadness, a loss of interest or pleasure, and even feelings of worthlessness. These emotions can last for more than two weeks and are difficult to alleviate through simple self-regulation. The onset of depression may be related to imbalances in certain chemicals in the brain that play a crucial role in regulating our emotions. When these chemical levels change, they can trigger depressive symptoms.

Symptoms of Depression You Might Not Know

Depression manifests in various ways, and beyond feeling low, it can include:

●  Sleep problems: Insomnia or excessive sleeping

●  Appetite changes: Loss of appetite or overeating

●  Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired even without doing much

●  Difficulty concentrating: Struggling to focus on work or studies

●  Mood swings: Easily becoming irritable or restless

●  Physical discomfort: Unexplained headaches, back pain, etc.

The Latest Depression Test

If you feel that you or someone you know might be showing signs of depression, you can try this simple self-test. It can help you gain a preliminary understanding of your or someone else's mental state, but remember, this is not a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis. If you have any concerns, it is recommended to consult a mental health professional as soon as possible.

PHQ-9 Depression Screening Scale (2023 Revision)

Please answer the following questions based on your experiences over the past two weeks and select the corresponding option:

●  Never (0 points)

●  Rarely (1 point)

●  Sometimes (2 points)

●  Often (3 points)

1. I feel down, depressed, or hopeless.

2. I have lost interest in things I usually enjoy.

3. I have trouble falling asleep or sleep too much.

4. I feel very tired and lack energy.

5. My appetite has changed; I either don’t want to eat or I overeat.

6. I feel bad about myself or feel like a failure.

7. I have difficulty concentrating, such as when reading or watching TV.

8. I feel like my movements or speech have slowed down, or I feel restless.

9. I have thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

Scoring:

●  0-4 points: Your emotional state is currently good.

●  5-9 points: You may have mild emotional issues; it is recommended to pay attention to your mood changes.

●  10-14 points: You may have moderate emotional issues; it is recommended to seek professional help.

●  15 points or more: You may have severe depressive symptoms; it is recommended to consult a mental health professional immediately.

Depression is Treatable

The good news is that depression is treatable. Modern medicine and psychology offer a variety of effective treatments, including medication, psychotherapy, and emerging therapies such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). These methods can help patients restore emotional balance and rediscover the joy of life. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as regular sleep patterns, moderate exercise, and a balanced diet, can also help alleviate depressive symptoms.

You Are Not Alone

Depression is not a rare condition; many people have experienced similar struggles. If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, remember that you are not alone. Seeking help is not something to be ashamed of; it is the first step toward facing the problem bravely. Whether it’s talking to family or friends or seeking help from a professional counselor, it is an important step toward recovery.

Depression is like a cold of the soul. Although it can be painful, as long as we face it positively and adopt the right treatment methods, we can overcome it. Let’s work together to create a warm and supportive environment for those affected by depression.