Indications to Screen a Patient for Depression

Gender of the patient

Has the patient experienced a recent loss?

Is the patient experiencing severe stress?

Does the patient complain of vague somatic symptoms (insomnia, headaches, stomachaches)?

Does the patient report any of the somatic (difficulty sleeping, eating, etc.) or emotional (loss of interest, feeling blue) symptoms of depression?

Does the patient have a history of alcohol abuse or other self-medicating behavior?

Does the patient have a history of self-destructive behavior?

Is the patient currently taking a medication associated with depression?

Does the patient have a major medical illness?

Has the patient recently been pregnant?

Has the patient been previously been diagnosed as depressed?

Does the patient have a family history of depression, suicide or mental illness?