Online Depression Test

Wondering if it’s just a phase or something more… Take this short online depression test.

Identify mental health challenges to plan therapy effectively.

Man with glasses sitting in wheelchair on laptop taking online test

Online mental health tests are one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, familiar, and treatable.

If you choose to take an optional mental health test from the Mental Health America website, feel free to bring your results to your therapy session to use with your therapist to help guide your session and measure progress over time.

Please note: Online screening tools are meant to be a quick snapshot of your mental health. Online screening tools are not diagnostic instruments. If your results indicate you may be experiencing symptoms of a mental illness, consider sharing your results with someone. A mental health provider (such as a doctor or a therapist) can give you a full assessment and talk to you about options for how to feel better. MHA Screening is an educational program intended to help inform people about options they have in getting help for mental health issues. It may suggest tools and resources that offer information, treatment services, self-help (or “DIY”) tools, and/or ways to connect with others. It does not represent its results as an exhaustive list of all services available to a given individual for a given mental health concern, as an endorsement of specific treatments or services, or as a replacement for treatment or services as performed by a qualified provider. For any and all suggestions, comments, or questions, please contact Mental Health America.

This website is an informational resource. We are not a crisis support line. If you need immediate help, you can reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or using the chat box at 988lifeline.org/chat.

Horn Counseling, LLC disclaims any liability, loss, or risk incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of these screens.

  • If you've observed changes in your mood or daily functioning lasting two weeks or longer, it may be helpful to take a mental health test. Experiencing increased fatigue, irritability, anxiety, lack of focus, or sadness, which interfere with your daily activities, could indicate a need for mental health treatment. Although mental health tests can be a first step, it does not replace professional treatment.

  • Mental Health America (MHA) offers free mental health tests that only take a few minutes to complete. MHA’s mental health tests will give you a better understanding of your symptoms and cover a variety of different mental health conditions. Currently, MHA provides mental health tests for depression and anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder) symptoms and others. You can take the free Mental Health Test Quiz at Horn Counseling to find out which test maybe the best for you to explore.

  • Please keep in mind that the online mental health tests available on Mental Health America's website are designed to help you recognize symptoms of mental health conditions. However, they are not intended to diagnose any mental health conditions. In order to receive a proper diagnosis, it is important to meet with a licensed and trained mental health professional. If you need help finding a qualified professional in your area, you can reach out to Horn Counseling for help to find someone in your area.

  • Online mental health tests can provide a quick assessment of the severity of your symptoms at a particular moment. However, for a more accurate and comprehensive evaluation of your mental health, it is recommended to work with a licensed mental health professional. A therapist or psychologist can gather additional information and regularly test your symptoms to determine a diagnosis and obtain a more complete understanding of your mental health.

  • We are here to help you find the most suitable mental health test for your needs. To determine which mental health test would be most appropriate for you, you can take our free mental health test quiz. You will receive your results immediately, and you can easily start the corresponding mental health test.

  • If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health symptoms, taking a mental health test is a great first step to gaining clarity around mental health symptoms.

    Your next step is to get started with mental health treatment. Horn Counseling is here to listen and help you develop strategies for better mental health. We offer free 15-minute consultations to help you come up with a plan for your mental health treatment and find a therapist who is a good fit for you. You can get started below.

What is Depression?

Depression Types and Symptoms

 

You are not alone.

Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. While many associate depression with feelings of sadness, it's crucial to recognize that depression can manifest in various forms, impacting individuals in unique ways. By exploring the different types of depression and their symptoms, we can gain a deeper understanding of this condition and how it affects those who experience it.

Depression Beyond Sadness

Symptoms of Depression

Depression encompasses more than just feeling sad; it can also exhibit as anger, exhaustion, hopelessness, or a sense of worthlessness. Those who experience depression may describe it as a tiring struggle against themselves or feeling like they are submerged in persistent darkness.

Personal Experiences: What Depression Feels Like

Depression can manifest itself in several ways and its symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people describe it as a constant feeling of pain that pricks their body like a needle, while others compare it to being engulfed by a thick, black fog. Physical changes such as fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions are some of the common symptoms of depression.

Recognizing Symptoms of Depression

It's essential to recognize the symptoms of depression to distinguish it from ordinary sadness. Depression involves experiencing a cluster of symptoms that persist over time and significantly impact daily functioning. These symptoms may include feeling low or empty most of the day, losing interest in activities once enjoyed, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Types of Depression

Situational Depression

Situational depression occurs in response to major life changes or traumas, such as job loss, a breakup, or the death of a loved one. While it may initially be a natural reaction to these events, situational depression can develop into a more severe form of depression if left untreated.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by persistent depressive symptoms that last for at least two weeks and significantly impair daily functioning. Individuals with MDD may experience multiple episodes of depression throughout their lives, with about half experiencing recurrent episodes if left untreated.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Persistent depressive disorder (PDD), formerly known as dysthymia, is a less severe but chronic form of depression that lasts for at least two years. Individuals with PDD may struggle to remember a time when they were not depressed, making it essential to seek treatment to improve their quality of life.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression occurs in individuals after giving birth and is characterized by hormonal changes that can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and paranoia. It's crucial for healthcare professionals to monitor new mothers for signs of postpartum depression and provide appropriate support and treatment.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) involves severe depressive symptoms that occur in the week leading up to menstruation and improve shortly after the period starts. Individuals with PMDD may experience extreme emotional changes that interfere with their daily lives and relationships.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs seasonally, typically during the winter months when there is less sunlight. Symptoms of SAD may include low energy, oversleeping, overeating, and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.

Depression and Bipolar Disorder

Depression can also coexist with bipolar disorder, a condition characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania. Individuals with bipolar disorder may experience periods of high energy and impulsivity, in contrast to depressive episodes.

Diagnosis and Seeking Help

Differentiating Between Sadness and Depression

While sadness is a natural response to life's challenges, depression involves a cluster of symptoms that persist over time and significantly impact daily functioning. Recognizing the difference between sadness and depression is crucial for seeking appropriate help and support.

Recognizing When Professional Help is Needed

If you suspect that you or someone you know may be experiencing depression, it's essential to seek professional help. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Seeking Treatment: Options for Managing Depression

There are various treatment options available for managing depression, including lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication. Lifestyle changes such as getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity can help improve mood and overall well-being. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals explore their thoughts and behaviors and develop coping strategies for managing depression. Medications such as antidepressants may also be prescribed to help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms.

What’s Next?

Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects individuals in various ways. By understanding the different types of depression and their symptoms, we can better recognize when professional help is needed and seek appropriate treatment. With the right support and resources, individuals living with depression can find hope and improve their quality of life. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available. You can reach out to us at Horn Counseling, and we will help you find a therapist in your area.

Change can begin with one step.

Horn Counseling

Ready to Start Your Therapy Journey?

01. Using the button below, you can schedule a free 15-minute consultation. Then, our admin team will confirm the details and email you a short questionnaire to complete.

02. One of our therapists will reach out to you at the scheduled time for the video consultation to learn more about your therapy goals and answer all your questions about the therapy process.

03. Assuming the therapist is a good fit and both parties want to work together, we’ll schedule the first intake session and go from there. If, for some reason, Horn Counseling doesn’t have a therapist that is a good fit for your therapy goals, we want to help you find a therapist that is.

FAQ

You May Be Wondering…

  • People pursue therapy for a multitude of reasons, each as valid and unique as the individual seeking help. Whether grappling with overwhelming emotions like grief, anger, fear, or guilt, navigating specific needs like BIPOC or LGBTQ-friendly therapy, or addressing complex issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or ADHD, therapy serves as a valuable tool for growth and healing. At Horn Counseling, we understand the diverse spectrum of challenges life presents, which is why we offer tailored individual and couples counseling services aimed at guiding you toward a path of resilience and fulfillment. Our goal is simple: to provide you with the support and tools necessary to not only overcome obstacles but to thrive in every aspect of your life.

  • We believe in providing professional, safe, and affordable therapy services. That is why we want to offer you multiple affordable options to get the needed therapy services.

    Private Pay Options

    For individual therapy sessions, we offer 50-minute sessions ranging from $100 to $150 per session, depending on the therapist's level of education, years of experience, and specialties. We understand that your journey is unique, and we want to ensure you have the best fit for your therapy goals.

    Health Insurance & EAP Options

    We know that you pay good money for your health insurance, and we want to help you get the most out of it. Horn Counseling licensed therapists are in-network with most Lyra, Cigna, and Evernorth Healthcare plans.

    If your Horn Counseling therapist is not in-network with your health care plan, we will provide a SuperBill or fancy session receipt that insurance companies use to determine if you are eligible for out-of-network reimbursement.

    Please get in touch with your insurance provider to verify coverage before your first session.

    No Insurance? Don’t Worry!

    We know that sometimes it can be more of a hassle to use health insurance to get quality therapy services. We offer affordable therapy options as low as $50 a session for those who want more options than their health insurance provides or for those who don’t carry health insurance.

    Join the Reduced Cost Waitlist Now

  • We think so! Despite the financial and time commitment, therapy offers invaluable benefits that can impact your life. We have seen this time and time again. From improving mental health and well-being to developing healthy coping mechanisms and enhancing relationships, therapy provides a safe space for personal growth and healing. While the cost may seem daunting, especially when compared to other expenses, prioritizing mental health is essential for overall well-being. Long-term therapy can be life-saving, offering stability and support in navigating the challenges of life inevitably brings. The sooner you seek help, the longer you’ll reap the rewards.

  • Upon your first assessment, your therapist will collaborate with you to devise a personalized schedule tailored to your specific requirements and goals. Generally, we suggest starting with weekly sessions to establish a solid foundation, allowing for consistent progress and rapport building. As therapy progresses, the frequency may transition to biweekly sessions to accommodate evolving needs and ensure continued growth. It's important to note that this schedule is highly individualized, reflecting the unique demands of each therapeutic journey. Rest assured, your therapist is committed to finding the optimal rhythm that supports your well-being and facilitates meaningful development.

  • At Horn Counseling, we take your privacy and confidentiality very seriously. We will never tell your employer, partner, family members, or anyone else what you share with us. There are a few exceptions under the law, such as when a client is considering suicide or violence to others, where we may need to step in for safety reasons. But aside from these legally required exceptions, we will not share the details of our sessions with anyone outside of our practice without your permission.

    If you would like us to communicate with someone about your care, such as another healthcare provider or family member, we can have you sign a release of information form, which we will keep on file giving us permission to share information.

  • The answer can be complicated as everyone’s therapy journey is unique. Depending on what you are coming in for, your therapy goals, challenges, symptoms, severity, and other factors, therapy can last 3-6 months or two years. Your therapist will check in with you every 4 to 6 sessions to review your treatment goals and discuss your progress. They will then discuss the subsequent 4 to 6 sessions and the plan to accomplish your therapy goals.

    Some clients want to work through a specific issue, whereas others may use therapy as part of their self-care routine more long term. The best way to know how long you might be in therapy is to speak with one of our therapists about your needs with a free 15-minute consultation.

  • We provide personalized, high-quality care from well-trained therapists who love their work. We’re passionate about mental health and take pride in continuing to expand our knowledge and skills to help you accomplish your therapy goals. We strive to create a safe, inclusive space to celebrate diversity. By pursuing continued education and training, our therapists remain engaged in supporting our community, including our LGBTQ+ and BIPOC clients.

  • Horn Counseling is located at 1004 Hickory Hill Lane, Suite 3, Hermitage, Tennessee 37076

    Not in Hermitage or the Nashville Area? We also provide services to clients online (telehealth) who reside anywhere in the state of Tennessee. To see how we can support you, use the button below to schedule a consultation.