Walk into your primary care provider’s office for a checkup or a sick visit, and you may be surprised by some of the questions you’re asked.
“You may wonder why your doctor is asking you about your feelings when you are in the office for a cough and a fever. It’s part of our efforts to screen patients for depression, which often goes undetected,” said Chadi Berjaoui, MD, a family medicine physician with Northeast Medical Group.
More than 21 million adults in the United States have experienced depression, according to a study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health. Yet, more than one-third of these adults did not receive treatment.
Doctors screen for depression during medical visits because it's a significant health issue that can impact overall well-being and increase the risk of other medical conditions, according to Dr. Berjaoui. “Early detection allows for timely treatment and improved outcomes, which means overall better health for the patient,” he said.
What is a depression screening test?
As part of your visit, your doctor may administer what’s called a depression screening test. It’s a self-assessment tool designed to identify symptoms associated with depression and assess their severity.
The screening usually consists of a series of set questions about your feelings, behaviors and experiences over a specific period. The results may show whether you need additional evaluation for appropriate care and treatment.
“The questions are generalized and unbiased and are meant to only get a general sense of how things are going with your overall mental health. They are not specific to the patient,” Dr. Berjaoui said.
What are some of the questions I may be asked?
As part of a depression screening, your doctor may ask you:
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems:
- Do you have little interest or pleasure in doing things?
- Are you feeling down, depressed or hopeless?
- Are you having trouble falling or staying asleep, or are you sleeping too much?
- Are you feeling tired or have little energy?
- Are you having trouble concentrating on things, such as reading the newspaper or watching television?
- How is your appetite (i.e. poor appetite or overeating)?
What if my doctor thinks I’m depressed?
If the initial screening test shows that you may have symptoms of depression, a more detailed screening will be conducted. These questions will delve a bit deeper into your personal situation and potential stressors that may be impacting your state of mind.
Once the assessment is completed, your provider will offer recommendations for next steps. Options for treatment include close supervision and follow up with your primary care provider, medications, behavioral resources such as therapy or counseling, or referral to a psychiatrist for further evaluation and management.
“Primary care providers are here to advocate for your healthcare needs – both physical and mental,” Dr. Berjaoui said. “Identifying and treating depression symptoms early can keep you and the people around you safe.”
Resources for depression
- In an emergency, call or text 911
- Nationwide 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 to be connected to a trained mental health professional
- Infoline 211 (Connecticut suicide and crisis hotline)
- “There are many telehealth options available and vary by insurance plans. I recommend going on the website for your health insurance plan or calling your insurance directly,” Dr. Berjaoui said.
- Apps: multiple platforms that focus on helping reduce depression
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nation’s largest mental health organization; offers free local support groups (virtually and in person): 1-800-950-6264 or visit the NAMI website.
- Workplaces and schools/universities offer their own mental health programs and access to therapists/counselors
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Learn more about Psychiatry Services at Yale New Haven Health.
