Depression test
This short self-check reflects the questions professionals use to screen for depression. It is not a diagnosis — it is a starting point. If several answers resonate, consider seeking a professional assessment.
Reflection questions
- 1Have you lost interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy?
- 2Do you feel down, empty or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day?
- 3Have your sleep patterns changed noticeably — sleeping much more or much less?
- 4Have your energy levels dropped even after resting?
- 5Has your appetite or weight changed significantly without trying?
- 6Do you have trouble concentrating or making decisions?
- 7Do you feel worthless or excessively guilty?
- 8Have these feelings lasted two weeks or more, most of the day?
The more of these you recognize — especially if they’ve lasted two weeks or more and affect more than one area of life — the more it makes sense to talk to a professional.
Need help now?
In the US, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free and available 24/7.
Call or text 988Support for the day to day
Balanced Mind offers an emotional journal, mood tracking and a crisis mode. Free in your browser.
Try for freeFrequently asked questions
Can an online test diagnose depression?
No. This questionnaire is a self-screening based on common depression symptoms and serves only as a starting point. Diagnosis requires a full clinical interview with a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist. Use this test as a reason to seek a professional evaluation, not as a conclusion.
Is depression effectively treatable?
Yes. Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Combining psychotherapy (especially CBT) with antidepressant medication, when indicated, has a 70–80% response rate. With proper treatment, most people with depression improve significantly.
What is the difference between sadness and depression?
Sadness is a normal emotion, usually tied to a specific event and temporary. Depression is persistent (two-plus weeks), not necessarily linked to an event, and comes with other symptoms like anhedonia (loss of pleasure in things you used to enjoy), fatigue, sleep and appetite changes, trouble concentrating, and in severe cases, thoughts of death.
What should I do if I have thoughts of not wanting to be here?
Treat that as urgent and tell someone today — a doctor, a crisis line, someone you trust. In the US you can call or text 988 at any hour, free and confidential. If you are in immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency room. These thoughts are a symptom of the illness, and the illness is treatable.