Depression Warning Signs are diagnosed based on the DSM IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).
This is a publication by American Psychiatric Association which helps mental health professionals to spot Depression Warning Signs and diagnose various mental disorders.
The doctor will also be able to diagnose it based on an individual’s symptoms, medical history and family medical history (as depression is hereditary). Currently there is no laboratory test to diagnose Depression.
Depression Warning Signs
If you feel you that you have some of the below mentioned symptoms the best option would be to consult a Doctor.
- Have a feeling of weakness or fatigue
- Insufficient sleep or oversleep
- Loss of interest or concentration in pleasurable activities
- Significant weight loss or weight gain
- Pessimistic thoughts or thoughts of failure
- Suicide thoughts
The doctor will ask you a series of questions to make sure you have Depression. The questions would be based on the DSM IV diagnosis as stated earlier. Some typical questions would be as follows:
- How long do you have these symptoms?
- When do you get these symptoms (pessimistic thoughts)?
- How is your relationship with outside world?
- Are you able to concentrate on your work?
- How is your married life?
- What is your favorite activity?
Once the doctor is able to analyze the individual’s mental condition based on his response, the Doctor may recommend for some medications or/ and Psycho-therapy.
Find out more at How to Deal with Depression
