Millions of people in the U.S. suffer from depression. More women than men suffer from this health condition. Major depression is an illness that affects a person's body, feelings, thoughts, and behavior.
Certain things can trigger an episode of depression. They include a stressful life event, genetics, physical illness, medicines, substance abuse, or hormone levels. Any one of these factors, or a combination of them, can make depression more likely. The following questionnaire can help you find out your risk for depression. Follow up with your healthcare provider if you are concerned about depression.
Loss of a spouse, family member, or loved one
Divorce
Loss of a job
A serious illness or surgery
A serious financial downfall
None
Alcoholism in any first-degree family member(s) (mother, father, brother, sister)
Bipolar disorder
Depression
Suicide (attempted or committed)
None
Heart attack (myocardial infarction).
Alcoholism
Type 2 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes
Kidney disease
HIV positive or HIV infection
Anorexia nervosa
Bulimia binge/purge
Hepatitis C
Multiple sclerosis
Suicide attempt
Bipolar disorder
Depression
Cancer
None
Your results
You have told us that there are no major risk factors in your current lifestyle and circumstances that would put you at risk of developing depression.
If you are concerned that you may be depressed, talk with your healthcare provider or a trained mental health professional.
You have told us that you have significant risk factors in your current lifestyle and circumstances that put you at higher risk of developing depression.
Having symptoms of depression does not necessarily mean you are depressed. Other conditions or illnesses can cause similar symptoms. It does mean that you should talk with your healthcare provider or a trained mental health professional who can diagnose your condition.
The answers you have given us show you are at risk for suicide.
If you have not already done so, talk with your healthcare provider, a family member, someone at a mental health clinic, or other supportive person as soon as you can. Find out where you can get help. Don't ignore this!
If you are thinking of harming yourself now, and have a plan and a means to do it, call or text 988 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. When you call or text 988, you will be connected to trained crisis counselors at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. An online chat option is also available at www.988lifeline.org. You can also call the Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255). Lifeline is free and available 24/7.
Put emergency phone numbers in your phone or keep them in your wallet or purse. These include a trusted friend or relative, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and your counselor or healthcare provider.
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional health care. Always talk with a healthcare provider for advice about your health. Only your healthcare provider can diagnose depression.
Author: Lambert, JG, MD
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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