What is the cut-off score for mild depression according to EPDS guidelines?

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a widely used screening tool for identifying postnatal depression. According to the guidelines established for the EPDS, a score of 7 to 13 indicates mild depression. This range signifies that while the individual may be experiencing some symptoms of depression, these symptoms are not severe enough to warrant a diagnosis of major depression but are still significant enough to indicate a need for further assessment and potential intervention.

This scoring system is helpful in guiding healthcare providers in their response to a patient's mental health needs during the perinatal period. Understanding the cut-off scores allows practitioners to categorize the severity of symptoms and align them with appropriate treatment pathways, making early identification and support feasible.

Other ranges, such as scores below 7, would generally indicate minimal to no symptoms of depression, while scores above 13 suggest moderate to severe depression. Thus, recognizing the specific cut-off score for mild depression assists healthcare professionals in adequately addressing and managing perinatal mental health challenges.