I’ve heard there are 2 simple questions doctors use to screen for depression. What are they?
In the last month:
1) Have you felt down or depressed or hopeless? and
2) Have you been bothered by little interest or pleasure in doing things?
If a patient answers yes to either of these questions, they are at a high risk for depression.
Bosanquet K, Bailey D, Gilbody S,et al. Diagnostic accuracy of the Whooley questions for the identification of depression: a diagnostic meta-analysis. BMJ Open. 2015;5(12):e008913.
What are the symptoms of childhood depression?
Some of the most common signs of childhood and teen depression are sadness, hopelessness, persistent irritability, anger, stomach aches, headaches, alcohol/drug use and changes in eating and sleeping patterns.
When should I seek professional help for my or my childÔÇÖs depression?
If depression is interfering with your or your childÔÇÖs ability to function in daily lifeÔÇôat school, at work, within the family, or sociallyÔÇôseek professional care.
Seek immediate professional help if you or your child is contemplating suicide.
What is something effective I can do on my own to deal with depression?
Exercise is one of the most effective things you can do to manage depression. Exercise encourages the production of new brain cells that can produce serotonin, the neurotransmitter responsible for helping us feel mentally healthy. Exercise also decreases stress. Twenty to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise is best. But you can start wherever you are and build up.
Wehrenberg , M. (2010). The 10 best-ever depression management techniques. W.W. Norton & Company.
 Can depression be dangerous?
Yes. Depression is dangerous because it is a major risk factor for suicide.
If you or someone you love is contemplating suicide – seek immediate professional help.
