Self-Assessment
Periodic blue moods, grief from loss, or mild sadness are normal occurrences. When these feelings become more intense and last longer, it could bes a sign of more serious depression. Difficult life events, family history, genetics, severe stress, trauma, major loss and excess alcohol or drug use can all lead to a higher risk of depression which doesn’t lift and may require counseling and/or medication.
Depression can be treated successfully. Here is a simple quiz that will help you to make some initial
decisions about next steps. You may want to speak to a professional about your symptoms.
| 1. | I have seen a steady change in my appetite and eating patterns, such as a loss of appetite or eating much more than normal. | Yes | No |
| 2. | I have lost interest in activities that I typically enjoy. | Yes | No |
| 3. | Sometimes I just feel like crying. | Yes | No |
| 4. | I am having difficulty with my sleep, e.g., sleeping too much, awakening very early in the morning and/or having difficulty falling and staying asleep. | Yes | No |
| 5. | I have had more thoughts about dying and suicide. | Yes | No |
| 6. | Sometimes I feel as if people would be better off without me in their lives. | Yes | No |
| 7. | I feel as if I have very little energy. | Yes | No |
| 8. | I am having more difficulty concentrating on things. | Yes | No |
| 9. | I have little interest in sexual intimacy. | Yes | No |
| 10. | I get much more irritable or angry at things lately. | Yes | No |
| 11. | The future seems bleak to me. | Yes | No |
If you have answered “Yes” to 3 or more of the questions above, there is a chance you may be
experiencing some type of depression. However, even one “Yes” answer could signal a serious
depression that requires professional help.
There are different types of depression and different levels of severity. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis from a professional is a necessary first step in order to match an appropriate treatment.
This self-assessment quiz is not a diagnostic tool. It is simply one way to help you to begin thinking about your current mood and symptoms. We urge you to share your responses with a licensed professional. Reach out to the USPS Employee Assistance Program today.
There are different types of depression and different levels of severity. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis from a professional is a necessary first step in order to match an appropriate treatment.
This self-assessment quiz is not a diagnostic tool. It is simply one way to help you to begin thinking about your current mood and symptoms. We urge you to share your responses with a licensed professional. Reach out to the USPS Employee Assistance Program today.
