Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

What does a score of 30-63 on the Beck Depression Inventory represent?

1. No depression

2. Moderate to severe depression

3. Mild to moderate depression

4. Severe depression

The correct answer is: Severe depression

A score of 30-63 on the Beck Depression Inventory indicates severe depression. This instrument is designed to assess the severity of depressive symptoms, with higher scores reflecting more significant depression. In particular, a score within this range typically encompasses symptoms that can greatly impact daily functioning, indicating a need for comprehensive evaluation and potentially more intensive treatment options. While lower scores on the inventory would suggest milder forms of depression, scores falling between 30 and 63 are indicative of more debilitating symptoms characteristic of severe depression, which may include pervasive feelings of hopelessness, extreme fatigue, and a marked loss of interest in most activities. This assessment can guide clinicians in formulating treatment plans that adequately address the level of distress experienced by the individual.