Help is available 24/7 for anyone struggling with depression, self-harm, and/or thoughts of suicide. Dial 988 to reach The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and be connected to support.
Depression is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Diagnosing depression requires a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional, as symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Because of this, in order to be effective, depression treatment must be comprehensive and customizable. Harmony Hills proudly offers treatment programs designed to be tailored to your own unique needs and goals.
Symptoms and Behaviors Observed in Diagnosing Depression
Mental health professionals rely on specific symptoms outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose depression. To meet the criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), a person must experience at least five of the following symptoms for a minimum of two weeks, with at least one being either depressed mood or loss of interest in activities:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Physical agitation or slowed movements
- Fatigue or low energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
These symptoms must cause significant distress or impairment in daily life, and they should not be attributable to substance use or another medical condition. Clinicians may also consider other factors such as a family history of depression, personal medical history, and environmental stressors.
How Different Severities of Depression Are Diagnosed
Depression is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Mental health professionals categorize depression based on its severity to tailor treatment accordingly:
Mild Depression
Symptoms are present but do not significantly impair daily functioning. Individuals may still be able to maintain their responsibilities but feel persistently low in mood.
Moderate Depression
Symptoms are more pronounced and start to impact daily life, including work, school, and relationships.
Severe Depression
Symptoms are debilitating, making it difficult or impossible for individuals to function in daily life. This level may include suicidal thoughts or behaviors, requiring immediate intervention.
The severity of depression influences the treatment approach, ranging from therapy and lifestyle changes for mild cases to medication and intensive therapy for severe cases.
The PHQ-9 Depression Questionnaire
The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is a widely used tool to screen for depression and assess its severity. It consists of nine questions that align with the DSM-5 criteria for depression. Patients are asked to rate the frequency of specific symptoms over the past two weeks on a scale of 0 (not at all) to 3 (nearly every day):