These two questions are a short check doctors use. In a study of 6,000 patients at family doctors' and gynaecology clinics, they did a fair job of picking out who needed a fuller assessment. Evidence: decent
It's a check, not a diagnosis. A yes doesn't mean you have depression. It means a doctor should ask you more, and only a doctor can do that part. A no doesn't rule anything out if something still feels wrong. The bar here is set lower than the one doctors use, on purpose: better one visit too many.
Why these two: they are the core signs doctors look for. Low mood, or clearly less interest or pleasure in things, most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more. A diagnosis needs other symptoms on top, and someone trained to check them. Evidence: solid
At the appointment, read the two questions out and say what you answered. You don't need better words than that.
If you've had thoughts of not wanting to be here, don't wait for an appointment. Call your local emergency number (112 in the EU) or a crisis line: findahelpline.com.
Same theme: In your head
In your head
Expect less, enjoy more
Before something you're looking forward to, lower the bar on purpose.
no timeEvidence: worth trying
In your head
Flat can look like anger
Ask someone who sees you most days whether you've been shorter with people lately. Believe the answer.
2 minEvidence: decent
In your head
Name it in one word
When something's got you, say what it is, plainly. "Annoyed." "Embarrassed." "Scared." Out loud or on paper.
no timeEvidence: decent