Depression can be quite the complex disorder but the most challenging aspect of the condition is diagnosing it. Interestingly, despite the disorder being quite dangerous, if it is diagnosed correctly during the early stages of the condition, it can be treated and controlled quite easily. Unfortunately, diagnosing the condition can be quite difficult. This is primarily due to the fact that symptoms are quite generic and may not even considered as actual symptoms. For example, feeling hopeless and negative may simply be misinterpreted as a bad day more than anything else. Other symptoms such as body pains and headaches can also be interpreted in a similar manner that will pass with time.
Another reason why diagnosis is prolonged and only detected in patients after a considerable period of time is because most people do not suspect the possibility that they may be having the disorder even though they may well be aware of the symptoms of the condition thanks to the widespread media publicity of the malady. Finally, being embarrassed or being in denial may also be a factor that plays into prolonging diagnosis in most people. One way to have an idea of whether you may be having the condition is using depression assessment tools. There are numerous assessment tools for depression that can be found in medical books and websites online.
The results of these depression assessment websites should be taken with a grain of salt and not be substituted for a proper clinical assessment for depression. It can however act as a guideline. A depression assessment quiz that suggests that you may possibly be having depression should be reason enough to have a professional diagnosis of the disorder.
Online depression assessment websites usually follow a similar pattern. A series of questions are asked in a multiple choice manner. You need to choose the most relevant option and based on the responses, the program will suggest the possibility of you having depression or not. Usually, at least 10 questions would be present in the quiz.
Alternatively professional assessments goes through a series of rigorous interviews along with blood work and other tests to rule out other disease and conditions for your symptoms. You will then be evaluated based on the exact, specific answers provided in the interview. Depression assessment tools are quite inaccurate but it is ideal if you are unsure and need a reason to visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis.