Are you depressed? If you’re not sure, it’s no surprise. Perpetual sadness isn’t the only symptom. Anger, back pain, sleep disturbances and even indecisiveness could all be signs of depression.
One in six adults will experience depression in their life, but you can’t get help if you’re not sure you need it. Your doctor can screen for depression, so it’s worth asking on your next visit.
Isolation and social withdrawal are common among people with depression. But it’s still possible to seek help during these periods. If you can’t face the thought of visiting your doctor, you can find information and assistance on your computer or smartphone.
Screening for Mental Health’s online screening program gives a brief survey. It then tells you whether your answers are consistent with depression and provides materials to bring to your next doctor’s visit and a list of resources. Although it’s not a formal diagnosis, it’s a place to start to seek help.
