Depression
Purpose
The purpose of this practical is to assess the level of depression in an individual
using Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI).
Materials Required
Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) questionnaire
Pen/Pencil
Score sheet
A quiet environment to ensure accurate assessment
Introduction to Depression
What is Depression?
Depression is a common but serious mental health disorder
characterized by persistent sadness, low mood, and loss of interest in
daily activities. It affects thoughts, emotions, and physical well-being,
making even routine tasks challenging. If left untreated, it can lead to
serious consequences such as social withdrawal, self-harm, and
suicidal tendencies.
Types of Depression
1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Severe symptoms lasting for
at least two weeks.
2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Chronic depression
lasting for at least two years.
3. Bipolar Disorder: Alternating episodes of depression and mania.
4. Postpartum Depression: Depression occurring after childbirth.
5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression triggered by
seasonal changes.
Causes of Depression
Biological: Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and
dopamine.
Genetic: Family history increases the likelihood of depression.
Psychological: Negative thought patterns, trauma, stress.
Environmental: Social isolation, financial problems, major life
changes.
Symptoms of Depression
Emotional Symptoms:
Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or guilt
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Increased irritability or frustration
Cognitive Symptoms:
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Negative self-thoughts or feelings of worthlessness
Suicidal thoughts or self-harm tendencies
Physical Symptoms:
Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
Changes in appetite (weight loss or gain)
Low energy levels or fatigue
DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder
According to the DSM-5, a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder
requires at least five or more symptoms for two weeks, with one being
either (1) depressed mood or (2) loss of interest or pleasure:
1. Depressed mood most of the day.
2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in activities.
3. Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite.
4. Insomnia or hypersomnia.
5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation.
6. Fatigue or loss of energy.
7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
8. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
9. Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
Prevention of Depression
Managing stress through mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
Seeking therapy at early signs of distress.
Engaging in regular physical exercise
Maintaining a balanced diet and proper sleep schedule
Managing stress through mindfulness and meditation
Staying socially connected with friends and family
Seeking professional help at early signs of distress
Treatment of Depression
1. Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), interpersonal
therapy.
2. Medication: Antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments: Proper sleep, healthy eating, regular
physical activity.
4. Support Groups: Emotional support from family, friends, or
therapy groups.
5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques – Yoga, meditation, deep
breathing
Subject Details
Name: Rohan Mehta
Age: 22 years
Sex: Male
Qualification: Undergraduate Student
Preliminary Setup
To ensure a smooth and accurate assessment, the following steps were
taken:
1. Selection of a quiet environment to eliminate distractions.
2. Providing an overview of the test and its importance.
3. Ensuring the subject’s comfort before beginning.
4. Explaining the instructions clearly regarding response selection.
5. Encouraging honest responses without fear of judgment.
Rapport Formation
Before administering the test, rapport was established using these
steps:
1. Casual conversation about daily life and interests.
2. Explaining the significance of the test in a friendly manner.
3. Reassuring the subject of confidentiality and privacy.
4. Creating a stress-free atmosphere for better responses.
5. Allowing the subject to ask questions before starting.
Administration
The subject completed the 21-item BDI questionnaire, selecting
responses that best described their feelings over the past two weeks.
The final score was calculated based on the standard scoring guide.
ISKE BAD EK PRACTICAL SE DEKH KR USKE ADM. KE POINTS LIKH DENA
Results and Interpretation
Table: Beck’s Depression Inventory Score Calculation
Subject's
Question Number Score
Response
1 2 2
2 1 1
3 1 1
4 2 2
5 1 1
6 0 0
7 2 2
8 1 1
9 0 0
10 1 1
11 2 2
12 1 1
13 2 2
14 1 1
15 1 1
16 2 2
17 1 1
18 2 2
Subject's
Question Number Score
Response
19 0 0
20 1 1
21 1 1
Total Score: 2 + 1 + 1 + 2 + 1 + 0 + 2 + 1 +0+1+2+1+2+1+1+2+1+2+0+1+1= 24
Interpretation and Discussion
The Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) is a widely used psychological
tool to measure the severity of depressive symptoms in individuals.
This test helps determine whether an individual is experiencing normal
mood fluctuations or clinical depression.
The test consisted of 21 questions, each addressing different
depressive symptoms.
The subject was informed about the test’s purpose and given
clear instructions.
The test was completed in a quiet, stress-free environment.
Interpretation
The subject’s score of 24 falls in the moderate depression range
(21-30).
The subject displayed key depressive symptoms such as low
mood, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and loss of interest in
activities.
Moderate depression suggests that daily life is impacted, but
intervention can significantly improve well-being.
Discussion
Individuals scoring in the moderate depression range often
experience difficulty maintaining social interactions and
motivation.
While this score does not confirm a clinical diagnosis, it indicates
that further psychological assessment or therapy may be
beneficial.
The subject exhibited some common depressive symptoms such
as low energy, loss of interest, and difficulty sleeping.
It is recommended that the subject seek professional counseling
or therapy for better mental well-being.
Conclusion
This practical successfully demonstrated the use of Beck’s Depression
Inventory in assessing depressive symptoms. The subject’s score of 24
suggests moderate depression, highlighting the importance of early
mental health intervention.
BDI is a useful screening tool but does not replace clinical
diagnosis.
Early detection of depressive symptoms can help prevent severe
mental health issues.
Psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and social support are crucial
in managing depression.
Seeking help should not be stigmatized; mental health is as
important as physical health.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
Beck, A. T., Steer, R. A., & Brown, G. K. (1996). Manual for the
Beck Depression Inventory-II.
