What is the Goldberg depression test?

The psychiatrist Ivan K. Goldberg developed a questionnaire for the diagnosis of depression. These tests are easy to find on the Internet and give a good orientation whether one is suffering from depression or depressive moods. The test consists of 18 questions, each with one of five possible answers.

If you score at least 15 points, you should consult a doctor or psychotherapist, as this could be an indication of depression. These tests, which can be found in large numbers on the Internet, can be taken by anyone. Their main purpose is to give you an idea whether your soul life can be classified as healthy or sick.

If you have the feeling or suspicion of suffering from depression, you can test yourself in advance to get an idea whether your own feelings are deceptive or true. It never hurts to keep an eye on yourself. For many people, days when they feel bad become more frequent over time and end in depression or other mental illness.

In addition, this is a good way to create certainty for oneself. But what is the real benefit of such a test? The test gives people who think they have a mental illness such as depression some idea of how likely they really are. It is a good guide for everyday life to keep an eye on how healthy you are and whether the days when you are not feeling well are still healthy or you should see a doctor.

How reliable is the test result?

All tests that can be found on the Internet or in corresponding institutions are only guidelines, but no diagnosis. Only a doctor, psychotherapist or psychologist can make a correct diagnosis. Of course, the test depends on how honestly and conscientiously you answer the questions yourself, in what condition you are at the moment and how well the test person can reflect on himself. Everybody feels certain situations and behaviours individually and so you can say that such a test gives a certain direction and can be a good help and you should take the test result very seriously, but it does not replace a diagnosis of a doctor, psychotherapist or psychologist.

Can a test determine the severity?

Although ordinary self-tests on the Internet can provide indications of depression and, if necessary, an estimate of its severity, they are no substitute for a visit to a doctor or psychotherapist. They can determine the severity of the depression by means of specific questionnaires. In principle, however, suicidal thoughts speak for a more severe form. Especially if concrete thoughts or even actions are present.

What are the consequences of a test?

The consequence of such tests is that the result should be taken seriously. If the test says that you are suffering from or at risk of suffering from depression, you should consult a doctor or seek help from a psychotherapist or psychologist. But, of course, no one is obliged to do this if they do not want to. These tests are actually always anonymous and so nobody can check who took the test and whether you have sought professional help.