Approximately 16 million adults in the U.S. (almost 7% of the population) had at least one episode of major depression in the past year. However, depression is one of the most treatable mental health disorders. The Care Quiz helps respondents determine whether they might have a depression diagnosis and, if so, promotes access to treatment.

The 10-question Care Quiz is based upon the Patient Health Questionnaire, an evidence-based depression screening tool developed in 1999 by Drs. Robert L. Spitzer, Janet W.B. Williams and Kurt Kroenke.

The Care Quiz, which takes between  2-5 minutes to complete, asks the respondent to rate depression symptoms experienced during the prior two weeks. The Care Quiz takes into account the main diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder as outlined in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a reference book widely used by mental health clinicians.

Although the Care Quiz cannot provide a formal diagnosis (which only a licensed mental health professional is qualified to determine), it does offer a general idea of the respondent’s severity of depression symptoms. The Care Quiz results can then be used in conjunction with a clinician’s professional assessment.

The Care Quiz can also be a great conversation starter for those looking to help a loved one identify and seek help for depression.

When Care Quiz results indicate a possible diagnosis of depression, we recommend seeking a professional assessment with a Travco Behavioral Health clinician who can provide a formal diagnosis and help guide the treatment process. Interventions might include therapy, psychiatric medication or both. Additionally, for treatment-resistant depression, Travco offers evidence-based interventions such as NeuroStar TMS (which is also indicated for the treatment of postpartum depression and PTSD) as well as Spravato.

If you (or a loved one) experience symptoms of depression, help is available! Start with the Care Quiz or contact Travco today at 330.286.0050 to learn more!

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