Depression is the most searched health topic on the Internet.

Depression can result from many causes. We all have bad days, even bad weeks, but the feelings should be temporary. The following is a self screening test only and should not be used in place of professional help. Depression can result from a death in the family, health problems, moving away from friends and family, a job change or difficulties at work, financial problems and many other issues. This self evaluation test is the first part of a series of articles on depression.

Read and evaluate each question carefully before scoring. Use the numbers to score each question.
	0: You very rarely or never feel as described

1: You occasionally feel as described

2: You have the feeling twice a month or more

3: You feel as described most of the time or constantly.

A: I have problems making decisions 0 1 2 3

B: I’m always tired. 0 1 2 3

C: Nothing, including my favorite pastimes, really excites me anymore. 0 1 2 3 .

D: If something goes wrong I feel it’s my fault. 0 1 2 3

E: Sex doesn’t interest me. 0 1 2 3

F: I’m unhappy with the way I look. 0 1 2 3

G: I’m not happy with where life is taking me ands I see no change in my future. 0 1 2 3

H: I have trouble going to sleep. 0 1 2 3

I: I think about committing suicide. 0 1 2 3

J: I worry about everything, including things out of my control. 0 1 2 3

K: I only stay at my present job because I have bills and no other income. 0 1 2 3

L: I cry for no apparent reason. 0 1 2 3

M: My day to day life gives me no satisfaction. 0 1 2 3

N: Compared to others, I feel I’m a failure. 0 1 2 3

O: I know my physical appearance is getting worse. 0 1 2 3

P: I always feel mentally exhausted. 0 1 2 3

Q: I never feel really happy. 0 1 2 3

R: I’m sensitive to criticism and have a hard time letting it go. 0 1 2 3

S: I’m irritable with others, including family and friends, for no reason. 0 1 2 3

T: I prefer not to be around other people.

Add up your score and refer to the following chart.
	20-29 Possible mild depression

30-40 suggests moderate depression. A consultation with your health care provider would be in order to discuss possible causes.

40 and over Indicates definite need for professional help and guidance.

Larry R. Miller is a freelance writer, photographer and webmaster. He can be reached through his website www.larryRmiller.com.