Depression is a mental health condition that causes patients to have an abnormally low mood and energy as well as an inability to feel pleasure (also known as anhedonia). According to Medline, 19 million Americans suffer from depression every year. Depression is a medical problem and requires care from experts to successfully treat. Some of the hallmarks of depression can be determined from observational tests, although in all cases an evaluation by a trained mental health professional is required to confirm the diagnosis.
Step 1
Observe the patient's speech and behavior. Patients who are depressed often have slower and more halting speech (compared to a normal, more fluid way of talking). They may have frequent pauses and speak quietly or timidly. Depressed patients also tend to walk more slowly and hesitantly.
Step 2
Observe the patient's mental faculties. One way of testing this is by asking him several questions that measure the patient's memory, vocabulary and math abilities. This is also known as the mini-mental status exam, and various version of it can be found online, or you can create your own. One simple memory test is to name three objects and then ask the patient a few minutes later if he can remember which objects you named.
Step 3
Examine sleep and eating habits. Patients who are suffering from depression often have abnormal sleep habits (either sleeping too much or too little) and may also have changes in appetite.
Step 4
Ask the patient about her mood and activity levels. Some of the diagnostic signs of depression include feelings of low self-worth and esteem, as well as a loss of enjoyment in previously enjoyable activities and hobbies. Also ask the patient if there is anything in particular that is bothering her, as anxiety and persistent worries can be harbingers of depression.
