How do I check to see if I have depression?

There is no one definitive test to diagnose depression, but a healthcare professional will typically use a combination of methods to determine if you have depression. Here are some steps that may be involved in the process:

1. Physical examination: A healthcare professional will conduct a physical examination and ask about any medical conditions or medications that may be contributing to the symptoms.
2. Psychological evaluation: The healthcare professional may use structured diagnostic interviews or questionnaires to assess for the presence and severity of symptoms of depression, such as the Diagn and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10).
3. Interview: The healthcare professional may ask you about your symptoms, including how long you've been experiencing them, how severe they are, and how they are impacting your daily life.
4. Laboratory tests: Blood tests may be performed to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the symptoms.

It's important to be honest and open with the healthcare professional during the evaluation, and to share any concerns or questions you may have.

Additionally, you can do self-assessment tests available online, however, it's important to keep in mind that these are not a substitute for a professional evaluation and should be used only as a guide. A healthcare professional can help you understand the results, and can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

If you suspect you might be suffering from depression, it's important to seek professional help. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve outcomes.

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