Do You Have Depression or Anxiety?
According to the NMSS, your answers to the following two questions can help you figure out if you are experiencing normal grief that commonly occurs with MS, or clinical depression:
- During the past two weeks, have you often felt down, depressed, or hopeless?
- During the past two weeks, have you had little interest or pleasure in doing things?
If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, you may be depressed. For a more detailed look at possible signs or symptoms of depression, you can get a free, confidential screening through Mental Health America. Your healthcare provider can also diagnose you or refer you to a mental health professional.
You can also contact an MS Navigator online or at 800-344-4867 during standard business hours for help finding a mental health professional near you.
If you answered no to these questions, but your mood is low, you may be experiencing grief or other emotional changes.
To screen for anxiety, a self-administered test called the GAD-7 (GAD stands for generalized anxiety disorder) can help you assess whether you’re experiencing minimal, mild, moderate, or severe anxiety. Again, check in with your doctor, who can help you get a diagnosis and connect you with a behavioral health professional.
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