Depression Symptoms and Trusted Screening Resources

Core DSM-5 Symptoms (≥2 weeks, ≥5 including #1 or #2)

1. Depressed mood most of day
2. Markedly diminished interest/pleasure (anhedonia)
3. Significant weight/appetite change
4. Insomnia or hypersomnia
5. Psychomotor agitation/retardation
6. Fatigue/energy loss
7. Worthlessness/excessive guilt
8. Diminished concentration/indecisiveness
9. Recurrent death/suicidal ideation

Validated Screening Tools

• PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) — primary care standard
• BDI-II (Beck Depression Inventory)
• HAM-D (Hamilton) — clinician-rated
• QIDS-SR (Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology)

Trusted Online Resources

• NIMH: nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression
• Mayo Clinic: mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression
• APA: psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression
• ADAA: adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression
• MHA Screening: screening.mhanational.org (free, anonymous PHQ-9)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call/text 988 (US)

Critical Action

Screening ≠ diagnosis. Positive screen → clinical evaluation. Suicidal ideation → immediate safety assessment. Treatment: psychotherapy (CBT, IPT, BA), antidepressants (SSRIs first-line), combination for moderate-severe. Recovery is expected with adequate treatment.