Please select one answer for each question, that is the closest to how you have felt in the PAST SEVEN DAYS.
If you have had ANY thoughts of harming yourself, please tell your GP or your midwife today.
If you would like to take a copy of the test to your GP, please use this Print Version (scoring instructions included) [PDF, 186KB]
Please note that this self-test is not intended to be a substitute for professional clinical advice. You should always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you might have regarding their health.
This test is called the Edinburgh Depression Scale (Murray and Cox, 1990) and is also referred to as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (Cox, Holden and Sagovsky, 1987) when used in the postnatal period.
0 - 9
Scores in this range may indicate the presence of some symptoms of distress that may be short-lived and are not likely to interfere with day to day ability to function at home or at work. However if these symptoms have persisted for more than a week or two it would be wise to seek advice from a qualified health provider to find out the cause.
10 - 12
Scores within this range indicate the presence of symptoms of distress that may be discomforting. We suggest that you repeat the test in 1- 2 weeks time. If you receive the same or a higher score you should consult your general practitioner about those symptoms or ask your health provider to refer you to a mental health specialist.
13+
Scores above 12 require further evaluation and possible referral to a perinatal mental health specialist.
If you have had ANY thoughts of harming yourself, please tell your GP or your midwife today.
For further information
Page last updated: 18-Jun-2010
Depression and Bipolar Disorder Information Australia - Black Dog Institute.
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