CancerQuest | Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) Scale

The Center for Epidemiological Studies - Depression Scale is a self-report scale developed to assess a patients signs of depression. It was developed in 1977 by Lenor Radloff and is regularly used by mental health professionals.⁽¹⁾ Its accuracy has been validated for cancer patients since its inception.⁽²⁾

To take the test: read the instructions and click on one circle per line. Take your time and try to be as honest. When you are done click on the "Score" button to receive your results. Below is a general assessment of results.This test is anonymous and no information will be recorded.

This is simply a preliminary assessment tool and it does not provide a complete and accurate diagnosis. If you feel you need help, please seek the advice of a physician or health professional regardless of the outcome of this test. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; depression is a medical illness that can commonly affect people with cancer.

Scoring and Assessment

Less than 16 Depression is not indicated
Consult a social worker to address any concerns you may have. People with scores in this range usually do not have clinical depression. However, emotional distress can be common in people with cancer. You are encouraged to get assistance from friends, family, clergy, social worker or your primary health care team.

16 - 20 Mild depression indicated
Seek assistance from mental health professional and/or a physician. People with scores in this range usually have a mild clinical depression that should be addressed. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; depression is a medical illness that can commonly affect people with cancer.

21-25 Moderate depression indicated
Seek assistance from mental health professional and/or a physician. People with scores in this range usually have a moderate clinical depression that should be addressed. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; depression is a medical illness that can commonly affect people with cancer.

26 or higher Severe depression indicated
It is important that you get assistance as soon as possible from your physician or mental health professional. People with scores in this range usually have a severe clinical depression. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; depression is a medical illness that can commonly affect people with cancer.

Getting Help

If you are a Winship Cancer Institute patient and you scored above a 16 or feel you need help visit the Quality of Life program to make an appointment/consultation. If you are not a Winship patient go to the next page for a list of resources.

Special thanks to Dr. Andy Miller and Dr. Michael Burke at the Emory Winship Cancer Institute.