Depression (Major Depressive Disorder)
A common psychiatric condition characterized by persistent depressed mood, anhedonia (diminished interest/pleasure), neurovegetative symptoms, and impaired daily functioning.
Affects approximately 8% of U.S. adults annually according to SAMHSA and CDC epidemiological surveys.
US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for depression in all adults aged 18 and older, including pregnant and postpartum women.
Recommended Screening Tools & Calculators (2)
PHQ-9
Patient Health Questionnaire-9
Validated 9-item screening and severity measure for depressive symptoms over the preceding two weeks.
PHQ-2
Patient Health Questionnaire-2
Ultra-brief two-item first-step depression screener evaluating anhedonia and depressed mood.
This instrument is designed for educational, informational, and clinical reference purposes. Screening scores do not constitute a definitive medical diagnosis. Individual clinical management must integrate full diagnostic history, physical examination, and laboratory data by a licensed healthcare professional.