Abnormal Psychology (Essay Sample)

Depression
Student’s Name
Institution Affiliation
Diagnosis process of Depression
Description of the disorder
Depression refers to a state of gloomy mood and aversion to activity that leads to a change in feelings, behavior and self-worth. People that are depressed may feel helpless, worthless, and sad, hurt and may become irritable. The patient also loses interest in pleasurable activities and may attempt suicide.
Purpose of a Clinical Assessment
Clinical assessment enables physicians to explore methods for primary care to patients and enhance understanding among the patient’s loved ones. Clinical assessment also helps rule out other disorders that may lead to the patient’s symptoms, diagnose the patient and examine related complications (Mayoclinic.org, 2014).
Depression Screening Instrument
Depression can be tested using psychological evaluation that examines signs and symptoms of depression. The patient is required to reveal his/her feelings, thought, symptoms and behavioral tendencies. Moreover, the mental health provider may demand that the patient fill a questionnaire to help answer the questions.
Signs and Symptoms
Depression is characterized by a given symptom criteria that must have lasted for over two weeks for the patient to be diagnosed with depression (Mayoclinic.org, 2014). The patient may experience severe weight loss or weight gain due to fluctuation in appetite. The patient may also have trouble thinking, concentrating and making decisions. The patients depressed mood and displeasure in most activities may lead to suicidal thoughts. Finally, the patient may experience fatigu...