When an online self-assessment scale shows "severe depression", how should ordinary people respond?

There are many self-rating depression scales on the Internet now, which cause panic among people.

1. Correctly view the self-assessment results: reference rather than diagnosis

1. Limitations of the self-rating scale

Common self-rating depression scales (such as SDS and PHQ-9) can help with preliminary screening of emotional states, but their results cannot replace professional diagnosis. For example, a standard score of ≥73 on the SDS scale may indicate "severe depression", but the scale only reflects recent subjective feelings and may be affected by temporary factors such as fatigue and stress.

2. Beware of “labeling” anxiety

Some people may panic due to the scale results, or even self-suggest symptoms. It should be noted that true major depression requires core symptoms (such as low mood, loss of interest, and decreased energy) that last for more than two weeks, accompanied by severe impairment of social function.

2. Do you need to see a doctor? The key is to look at the symptoms and risks

1. Situations where immediate medical attention is recommended

Suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviors: Patients with severe depression are at high risk of suicide and require professional intervention.

Unable to lead a normal life: such as long-term bed rest, refusing to eat, and being unable to work or study.

Accompanied by hallucinations or delusions: such as hearing accusing voices and believing that one is guilty.

2. Situations where you can observe first and then decide

If the scale shows "severe" but the actual symptoms are mild (such as only mood swings and occasional insomnia), it is recommended to adjust the lifestyle: regular work and rest, moderate exercise, and reduce solitude. Seek social support: talk to relatives and friends or join a mutual aid group. Retest after 1-2 weeks: If the symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.

3. Medical consultation process and treatment options

1. How to choose a department

Priority is given to psychiatry or psychology departments, or depression clinics.

If accompanied by physical symptoms (such as headache, palpitations), you can first go to a general hospital to rule out organic diseases.

2. Treatment

Drug treatment: SSRIs (sertraline, fluoxetine) must be taken as directed by a doctor and will take effect in 4 to 6 weeks.

Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can correct negative thinking and is suitable for mild to moderate patients.

Inpatient treatment: Suitable for those with high risk of suicide, refusal to eat or ineffective drug treatment. Closed wards can provide 24-hour monitoring.

4. Daily Coping Strategies

1. Avoid isolating yourself. Even if you don’t want to socialize, you can get support through online communities or psychological hotlines (such as 96525).

2. Keep an emotional diary and describe your emotional changes in 1-2 sentences every day to help your doctor determine fluctuations in your condition.

3. Be wary of misleading information on the Internet and do not believe statements such as "depression can heal itself" or "Chinese medicine can replace Western medicine". Treatment requires systematic and professional methods.

The self-assessment scale is an "alarm" for discovering psychological problems, not a "verdict". If the result shows "severe depression", please stay calm and judge whether you need to seek medical treatment based on your own symptoms and risks. Early intervention and standardized treatment are the key to recovery from depression. Psychiatrists and psychotherapists will develop a personalized plan for you to help you gradually get out of the haze.