You can Google almost anything— and according to Asia One, you can now find a mental health quiz through Google. The online giant is linking arms with a mental illness group to offer individuals a quick, simple way to find out if they are struggling with depression or another mental illness.

How It Works

When someone within the United States googles “clinical depression” on a mobile device, the search engine will push out its regular list of curated results, along with a prompt that invites the user to complete a short questionnaire, called a PHQ-9 test. With the help of the questionnaire, users can see if they may be clinically depressed.

The PHQ-9 test is a “clinically validated screening questionnaire, “according to a Google spokesperson. It can help determine the level of a person’s depression so the individual can be better informed and discuss the results with a doctor.

The Development Team’s Goals

Google’s massive team worked with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to create the self-diagnostic questionnaire. It’s helpful for awareness, but also as a prompt to encourage people to seek treatment for depression.

NAMI’s CEO, Mary Giliberti, explains, “Clinical depression is a very common condition; in fact, approximately one in five Americans experience an episode in their lifetime. However, despite its prevalence, only about 50 per cent of people who suffer from depression actually receive treatment.”

If depression is left untreated, it can cause a downward spiral that severely impacts quality of life, leads to self-harm or drug abuse, or ends in suicide.

Worldwide Ramifications of the Test

While the test was designed primarily for American Google users, it can be helpful for anyone around the world. In areas of the world where mental illness still carries a harsh stigma, having the chance to anonymously assess one’s state of mind can be a valuable tool. For sufferers from severe depression in Singapore, the Google test could offer them the extra push they need to finally go see a psychologist in Singapore and get some help.

” Clinical depression is a treatable condition which can impact many aspects of a person’s life,” says Giliberti. “The PHQ-9 can be the first step to getting a proper diagnosis.”

Help for Mental Health Struggles in Singapore

If you suspect that you’re suffering from poor mental health in Singapore, feel free to check out the Google test; but remember that an online test can only take you so far. You’ll need the guidance and help of a trained psychiatrist in Singapore, like those at Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic.

Thanks to our combination of traditional talk therapy with modern therapy styles, our care team is well-placed to guide you on your journey back to good mental health. Contact our office anytime during business hours to ask your questions or set up your first consultation.


News Feed from Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic

Source: Asia One, 25 Aug 2017