Could you be depressed?

There are many symptoms of depression, including low mood, feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, lack of energy and problems with sleep. The more symptoms someone has, the more likely they are to be depressed.

This test will help you to assess whether you could be suffering from symptoms of depression.

Answer the questions based on how you've been feeling during the last two weeks.

1.Have you found little pleasure or interest in doing things?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 point)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

2.Have you found yourself feeling down, depressed or hopeless?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 points)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

3.Have you had trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much?

No, not at all (0 point)
On some days (1 points)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

4.Have you been feeling tired or had little energy?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 point)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

5.Have you had a poor appetite or been overeating?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 point)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

6.Have you felt that you're a failure or let yourself or your family down?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 point)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

7.Have you had some trouble concentrating on things like reading the paper or watching TV?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 point)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

8.Have you been moving or speaking slowly, or very fidgety, so that other people could notice?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 point)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

9.Have you thought that you'd be better off dead or hurting yourself in some way?

No, not at all (0 points)
On some days (1 point)
On more than half the days (2 points)
Nearly every day (3 points)

More on suicidal thoughts
If you have had thoughts of self-harming or are feeling suicidal contact someone immediately.

• See your GP or the out-of-hours GP service. If you have already taken an overdose or cut yourself badly, dial 999.
• There are helplines with specially trained volunteers who'll listen to you, understand what you're going through, and help you through the immediate crisis.
• Or contact a friend, family or someone you trust.

The Samaritans operate a service open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for people who want to talk in confidence. Call 08457 909090.

RESULTS

0-4 points

Based on your responses today it's unlikely you're suffering from depression.

5-9 points

Based on your responses today it is likely you could be suffering mild depression

10-14 points

Based on your responses today it is likely you could be suffering moderate depression

15-19 points

Based on your responses today it is likely you could be suffering moderately severe depression

20-27 points

Based on your responses today it is likely you could be suffering severe depression. If this is the case we would recommend you see your GP immediately.

The Samaritans operate a service open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for people who want to talk in confidence. Call 08457 909090.

This is for information only and is not intended to replace a consultation with a GP. This PHQ was developed by Drs Robert L Spitzer, Janet BW Williams, Kurt Kroenka and colleagues with a grant from Pfizer Inc. Reproduced with permission.

If you feel you are suffering with depression, sign up now to The Beat Depression Program