Patric Pförtner
M.Sc. Psychologe, PhD Candidate
Feeling overwhelmed can be tough. This self-assessment can help you identify if talking to a therapist might be beneficial.
Consider these questions:
Remember, these could be signs of common mental health challenges, but they are not a diagnosis.
Seeking help is a sign of strength. A therapist can be a supportive partner in understanding your experiences and developing strategies to manage difficult emotions and improve your well-being.
Here are some facts to consider:
According to the Wold Heath Organization, 970 million people globally were living with a mental disorder in 2019, with anxiety and depression the most common. In the same year, nearly a billion people – including 14% of the world’s adolescents – were living with a mental disorder. Suicide accounted for more than 1 in 100 deaths and 58% of suicides occurred before age 50. .
If you're experiencing several of these symptoms and they're impacting your daily life, consider reaching out to a therapist. They can provide support and guidance tailored to your unique needs.
Do any of these questions sound familiar?
If you find yourself struggling with these questions and anxieties, this test may be for you.
This self-administered online screening can give you a general idea of whether you should consider therapy as one possible solution.
This test is not a diagnostic tool for Mental Disorders. It cannot guarantee you have or don't have any kind of disorder.
However, this test can be a helpful self-screening tool. It can give you insight into your symptoms and track any changes over time. You can also share your results with a doctor, therapist or psychologist to show them any shifts in your mental health.
Remember, only a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or therapist, can diagnose a mental disorder and recommend the best course of action for you.
All questions refer to the last 14 days. The answer options are graded on a scoring system, where the first answer option is one point and the last is five points. Enter your ratings next to each question and click the "Evaluate" button at the end.
1. I feel like I've been crying more than usual.
2. I've lost interest in activities I used to enjoy.
3. I often feel tired or have little to no energy.
4. I have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
5. I'm experiencing physical pain for which no medical cause has been found.
6. I have recurring thoughts or worries that I can't control.
7. I avoid social situations because they make me anxious.
8. I feel worthless or guilty.
9. I've noticed recent weight changes without changing my diet or exercise habits.
10. I have difficulty concentrating on tasks.
11. I use alcohol or drugs to cope with my feelings.
12. I find it difficult to maintain relationships with others.
13. I feel like my emotions or mood are interfering with my quality of life.
14. I feel like I need help coping with my emotions or mood.
15. My emotions are interfering with my ability to function at home, work, or school.
This online screening is not a diagnostic tool. Only a trained medical professional, such as a doctor or a psychiatrist or psychotherapist, can help you with the next steps.
Taking this self-assessment can be a valuable springboard for reflection and potential future discussions with a therapist.
Here's why: For example, imagine your top 3 questions were
Overall, this self-assessment is a tool to empower you to explore your experiences and potentially seek professional guidance for a healthier and more balanced life.