Depression is a common mood disorder characterized by persistent low mood, loss of interest, and lack of energy, with severe cases presenting suicidal ideation. Without timely diagnosis, it can easily lead to social dysfunction, decreased occupational ability, and even life-threatening conditions. Diagnosis mainly relies on psychological scales, clinical interviews, and comprehensive assessment tools, carried out by qualified psychiatrists or psychologists.

Diagnostic Basis

1. Emotional and behavioral observation

Clinicians first observe the patient’s emotional state, verbal content, and behavioral responses to determine whether persistent depressive mood is present. Common manifestations include intense sadness, loss of interest, hopelessness about the future, reduced activity, slowed reactions, and sluggish movements.

2. Clinical standard references

The diagnosis of depression refers to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). For example, DSM-5 specifies that the presence of five or more core symptoms (such as low mood, appetite changes, insomnia or hypersomnia, feelings of worthlessness, suicidal ideation, etc.) for two consecutive weeks can be considered a depressive episode.

3. Standardized psychological scale assessments

Professionals often use scales such as the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). These scales quantify the severity of depressive symptoms, helping determine whether diagnostic criteria are met and guiding subsequent treatment planning.

4. Etiology screening and medical history inquiry

Doctors will investigate family history, past psychiatric disorders, life events, and medication use. Certain physical illnesses (such as thyroid dysfunction and brain diseases) may cause depression-like symptoms, which must be ruled out by laboratory tests or imaging to exclude organic pathology.

5. Suicide risk assessment

Suicide is one of the most severe outcomes of depression. Clinicians assess self-harm or suicide risk through verbal cues, questionnaires, or behavioral observation, and decide whether emergency intervention or hospitalization is necessary. High-risk patients require continuous monitoring and early systematic treatment.

6. Pre-screening for stem cell therapy

In some advanced medical institutions, stem cell therapy is considered an adjunctive treatment option. Before receiving stem cell therapy, patients must undergo complete psychological state evaluation, biological marker analysis, and life adaptability assessment to ensure psychological and physiological suitability, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy and safety.

7. Multidisciplinary evaluation and dynamic tracking

Depression diagnosis is not a one-time conclusion but a dynamic process. Psychiatry, psychology, and neurology departments must jointly assess patients’ responsiveness, cognitive function, and social adaptation behaviors to ensure comprehensive and continuous diagnosis. Regular re-evaluation during treatment helps assess efficacy and adjust interventions.

Conclusion

Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that depression is not a simple emotional problem but a psychiatric disorder requiring scientific diagnosis and long-term management. Early recognition and systematic evaluation are key. Standardized diagnosis aids precise treatment and prognosis improvement, and families should actively participate throughout the intervention process.