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Home > News & Reports > Depression Checklist

SEPTEMBER 16, 1998

Are You Depressed?

Depression should be diagnosed by a health professional, but there are some symptoms to look for. The list below is provided by the National Institute of Mental Health's Depression Awareness, Recognition and Treatment program and includes symptoms of chronic depression and bi-polar disorder, also known as manic depressive illness.

If you suffer from five or more of the following symptoms of depression or mania for more than two weeks, or if the symptoms are interfering with work or family life, seek a thorough diagnosis. A diagnosis should include a complete physical checkup and a review of your family health history.

Check the symptoms of depression
that apply to you:

Persistent sad or "empty" mood
Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities, including sex
Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down"
Sleep disturbances (insomnia, early-morning waking, or oversleeping)
Eating disturbances (loss of appetite and weight, or weight gain)
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
Irritability
Excessive crying
Chronic aches and pains that don't respond to treatment

Check the symptoms of mania
that apply to you:

Excessively "high" mood
Irritability
Decreased need for sleep
Increased energy and activity
Increased talking, moving, and sexual activity
Racing thoughts
Disturbed ability to make decisions
Grandiose notions
Being easily distracted

In the workplace, depression
may be recognized by:

Decreased productivity
Morale problems
Lack of cooperation
Safety problems, accidents
Absenteeism
Frequent complaints of being tired all the time
Complaints of unexplained aches and pains
Alcohol and drug abuse

You checked symptoms.

If you checked five or more symptoms, and the symptoms persist for more than two weeks, seek a thorough diagnosis. A thorough diagnosis should include a complete physical checkup and a review of your family health history. The National Institute of Mental Health Depression Education Program has more information on depression.

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Part 2: Researchers Look to Biochemistry

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