Is it based on what you tell them, or do they have an actual test to find out if you really have it or not? in other words, is there a way for them to find out if your brain is not producing the correct amount of horomones?
To effectively diagnose and treat depression, the doctor must hear about specific signs and symptoms of depression. while a physical examination will reveal a patient's overall state of health, by talking with a patient, a doctor can learn about other things that are relevant to making a depression diagnosis. A patient, for example, can report on such things as daily moods, behaviors, and lifestyle habits.
A depression diagnosis is often difficult to make because clinical depression can manifest in so many different ways. For example, some clinically depressed individuals seem to withdraw into a state of apathy. others may become irritable or even agitated. Eating and sleeping patterns can be exaggerated. A depressed person may either sleep or eat to excess or almost eliminate those activities.
Observable or behavioral symptoms of clinical depression may be minimal despite a person experiencing profound inner turmoil. Depression is a pernicious and all-encompassing disorder, and it affects a person's body, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in varying ways.
Actually the thing that your brain needs more of is called Seratonin. and although there may be a way for the doctors to check the levels, that would be too expensive. instead the doctor asks you a series of questions (sometimes you fill out a paper) that determine whether you have depression. if you have the symptoms and have been having them for 2 weeks or more then you are determined as being clinically depressed.
generally your get asked to fill out a form and they will also ask you questions. blood tests are very rarely done.
How do doctors diagnose clinical depression?
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