Gynecology 110: Depression Screening
by Ngozi Osuagwu, MD | April 2nd, 2017
Mental health issues are real and we as a community still keep silent. There is nothing to be ashamed of if you need help. You should feel open talking to your physician. You are not alone.
When it comes to depression, women tend to be at a higher risk than men. We are really vulnerable at certain stages of our lives- teenage years, pregnancy, postpartum, and the menopause transition.
Screening for depression is done by the history that you provide and a questionnaire. There are several screening questionnaires. Below is one and it is called the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ2). It cannot make the diagnosis of depression, but can tell us if you need additional testing. If you score more than 2, I would recommend that you schedule an appointment to see your primary care physician or obstetrician/gynecologist.
Over the past two weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?
Little interest or pleasure in doing things.
0 = Not at all
1 = Several days
2 = More than half the days
3 = Nearly every day
Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless.
0 = Not at all
1 = Several days
2 = More than half the days
3 = Nearly every day
Total point score: ______________
Treatment typically requires counseling and sometimes medication. Under the Affordable Care Act, mental health services are covered. You may also consider using your employer’s services. Call a friend or a family member to assist you. Please know that that you are never alone.
