There are many online questionnaires available to help you determine whether your symptoms indicate that you are suffering from depression. However, only a qualified mental health professional is able to make a diagnosis of depression. The following self-questionnaire is provided solely for informational purposes and is not intended to take the place of a professional medical diagnosis.

• Have you been feeling down or blue for at least two weeks?

• Are you having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep?

• Do you find yourself sleeping much more or much less than usual?

• Are you eating significantly more or less than you usually do?

• Do you find yourself having difficulty concentrating?

• Do you feel helpless or that life just isn't worth the effort?

• Do activities that used to give you pleasure now seem too much work?

• Have you had thoughts of suicide?

• Has your energy level decreased?

• Have any of the symptoms you are experiencing interfered with the quality of your life?

If you've answered yes to any of these questions, have a talk with your primary health care provider. Depression may be the problem, but often other medical conditions have symptoms that mimic those of depression. Your doctor is in the best position to advise you.