Depressed Mood (sadness, hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness)
FAQs
What is the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D)?
The HAM-D is a clinician-administered tool widely used to measure the severity of depression symptoms.
Who developed the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and when?
It was developed by Max Hamilton in 1960.
What type of tool is the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale?
It is a clinician-rated scale.
What does the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale assess?
- Mood
- Feelings of guilt
- Suicidal thoughts
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Somatic symptoms
How is the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale structured?
The original version has 17 items, scored on 3- or 5-point scales depending on the symptom.
How is the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scored?
Total scores are interpreted as: 0–7 (Normal), 8–13 (Mild), 14–18 (Moderate), 19–22 (Severe), and ≥23 (Very Severe).
Are there versions of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale?
Yes, the 17-item original, a 21-item expanded version, and various adaptations.
Who can use the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale?
It is used for adults in both clinical and research settings worldwide.
What are the strengths of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale?
It is considered the gold standard for measuring depression severity and is sensitive to treatment changes.
What are the limitations of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale?
It requires a trained clinician, some items are subjective, and it is not a diagnostic tool.
How is the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale used?
It is applied in clinical practice, research trials, and outcome measurement.