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Screening for Depression

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

ConditionInDepth

Screening for Depression

Screening is done to find a problem and treat it early. Tests are given to people who do not have symptoms but who may be at high risk.

Screening Guidelines

All adults should be asked about depression during doctor routine visits. Care involves a case manager or other ways to get help when it is needed.

Adolescents 12 years old and older should be screened for depression each year.

Screening Guidelines

All adults should be asked about depression during doctor routine visits. Care involves a case manager or other ways to get help when it is needed.

Adolescents 12 years old and older should be screened for depression each year.

Screening Tests

There are many questionnaires that are used to screen for depression. One way is to ask 2 easy questions:

  • Over the past 2 weeks, have you felt down, depressed, or hopeless?
  • Over the past 2 weeks, have you felt little interest or pleasure in doing things?

The doctor may advise further testing and treatment.

References

  • Depression in adults: Screening. US Preventative Services Task Force website. Available at: https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/Page/Document/UpdateSummaryFinal/depression-in-adults-screening1.
  • Depression in children and adolescents. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/depression-in-children-and-adolescents.
  • Depression in children and adolescents: Screening. US Preventative Services Task Force website. Available at: https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/Page/Document/UpdateSummaryFinal/depression-in-children-and-adolescents-screening1.
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/major-depressive-disorder-mdd.

Contributors

  • Adrian Preda, MD
Last Updated:
2022-11-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.