Depression diagnosis: how do doctors diagnose depression?
Outlining the diagnosis process for depression, where you can seek a diagnosis and what happens after you’ve been diagnosed with depression.
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, with around 5% of the global adult population (approximately 280 million people) believed to be experiencing depression at any given time.
If you’re concerned about your mental health, the first step towards effective treatment and recovery is to seek a diagnosis. You can begin this process with your GP or via a private assessment.
Diagnosis assessments may involve screening tools, a review of your family history and a physical examination.
The whole process, and how you can prepare, is outlined below.
Signs you might need a diagnosis
It can be tricky to know whether you’re experiencing the ups and downs of modern life or if it’s depression. Depression can affect everyone differently, but understanding the symptoms of depression can help you to decide if you should seek a diagnosis.
Physical signs:
- Low energy, tiredness
- Insomnia or oversleeping
- Appetite changes, either eating more or less
Psychological symptoms
- Intense feelings of sadness and anxiety
- A sense of fear, hopelessness or guilt
- Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
If you think you might be experiencing depression, you could take our online depression test. While this isn’t designed to give you a diagnosis, it will help you to get a clearer picture of what’s going on for you so that you can take the next steps.
The diagnostic process
Diagnosis usually begins with an initial assessment, where you’ll be asked questions about what symptoms you’re experiencing, their duration and the impact they’re having on your daily life.
It can be helpful to keep notes on your symptoms so you can answer questions such as ‘how long have you been feeling this way?’ or ‘do you have trouble sleeping, concentrating or making decisions?’. You may also be asked if you’re having any thoughts of hurting yourself.
You might also be asked to complete a screening tool to assess how severe your symptoms are. The most commonly used questionnaire in the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).
A more in-depth assessment may follow. At this type of appointment you’ll be asked more detail about your personal history, current mental state and lifestyle as well as questions on any risk factors such as chronic conditions, traumatic experiences and family history.
A physical exam might be necessary to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid issues.
Where to get a diagnosis
There are two ways to get a diagnosis of depression, either from the NHS via your GP, or by private assessment.
1. GP appointment
GPs are equipped to diagnose depression during routine appointments, while accessing support through the NHS is free at the point of access. GPs may refer you to a specialist for a more in-depth assessment, particularly if your symptoms are severe, complex or don’t respond favourably to initial treatment.
You may find that the downsides of choosing an NHS appointment via your GP includes longer waiting times and high demand, with limited support services. You may also have less choice in the type of treatment you’re offered.
2. Private assessment
A private assessment offers a more tailored and detailed approach than a standard GP assessment. You’re likely to have quicker access to mental health specialists – such as psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists – with a broader range of treatment options.
Private assessments come at a cost but they can lead to faster diagnoses and treatment. Treatment plans will also be more personalised.
Priory offers private assessments and specialist treatment options at a network of UK hospital sites and wellbeing centres. Get in touch if you’d like to know more about what we offer.
Preparing for your appointment
Preparation can help you feel more confident and in control. Tips for preparing for your appointment include:
- Write down symptoms and examples of how they affect your daily activities
- Collect a family mental health history if possible
- Note any lifestyle factors that may affect your depression (examples include sleep, diet or substance use)
- Ask a trusted person if they would accompany you for emotional support, if this is something you’d find helpful
You might also want to think about any questions you have in advance, such as:
- What are my treatment options?
- What can I do to support my recovery?
- How often should I expect follow-up appointments?
Next steps after diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis - whether it's depression or another condition - can feel overwhelming but it’s the first step to recovery and a brighter future. Ongoing care is crucial to recovery from depression and common treatments include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication and lifestyle changes.
At Priory, private depression treatment is available at a network of UK hospitals and wellbeing centres, delivered by the very best mental health practitioners. Our flexible treatment plans will be tailored to the severity of your depression, and includes options in inpatient, day care and outpatient care.
