HAM-D (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale)

The HAM-D, or Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, is a medical tool used by healthcare professionals to assess the severity of depression in a person. It involves a structured interview where the clinician evaluates various symptoms like mood, sleep, appetite, energy, and thinking patterns. Each item is scored based on the intensity or frequency of symptoms, and the total score indicates how severe the depression is—ranging from mild to very severe. The scale helps doctors monitor how well treatments are working and make informed decisions about care. It’s a standardized method to understand depression’s impact on an individual.