Millions of people in the U.S. suffer from depression. More women than men suffer from this health condition. Major depression is an illness that affects a person's body, feelings, thoughts, and behavior.
Certain things can trigger an episode of depression. They include a stressful life event, genetics, physical illness, medicines, substance abuse, or hormone levels. Any one of these factors, or a combination of them, can make depression more likely. The following questionnaire can help you find out your risk for depression. Follow up with your healthcare provider if you are concerned about depression.
Loss of a spouse, family member, or loved one
Divorce
Loss of a job
A serious illness or surgery
A serious financial downfall
None
Alcoholism in any first-degree family member(s) (mother, father, brother, sister)
Bipolar disorder
Depression
Suicide (attempted or committed)
None
Heart attack (myocardial infarction).
Alcoholism
Type 2 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes
Kidney disease
HIV positive or HIV infection
Anorexia nervosa
Bulimia binge/purge
Hepatitis C
Multiple sclerosis
Suicide attempt
Bipolar disorder
Depression
Cancer
None