Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Hamilton Depression Rating Scale
A clinician-administered assessment tool for measuring the severity of depression symptoms.
Full Definition
The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D or HDRS) is one of the most widely used clinician-rated scales for assessing depression severity. The most common versions are the 17-item and 21-item scales, which evaluate symptoms including mood, guilt, suicide, insomnia, work activities, psychomotor symptoms, anxiety, and somatic concerns. Scores range from 0-52 on the 17-item version, with higher scores indicating greater depression severity. This scale is frequently used in clinical trials and research settings to track treatment response.
Usage
Usage note: Can be abbreviated as HAM-D or HDRS; specify version (17-item vs 21-item) when relevant.
In Context
- "The patient's Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score decreased from 23 to 8 after six weeks of treatment." — Clinical trial documentation
- "HAM-D administration revealed moderate depression with prominent sleep disturbance and psychomotor retardation." — Assessment report
Also known as
HAM-D
HDRS
Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression
Don't confuse with
Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale
Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale
Beck Depression Inventory