TRaC II Safety Sensitive Algorithm

Brief Mood Assessment

About half of individuals who smoke experience depressive symptoms, [Reference 3] and their relative risk for suicide is 2 to 4 times higher than non-smokers. [Reference 4]

A previous history of mood disturbance associated with cessation can be assessed by asking:

Over the last two weeks, have you been bothered by either of the following, more days than not:

• Little interest or pleasure in doing things?
  
  Yes No
• Feeling down, depressed or hopeless? [Reference 5]
  Yes No

Screen for a major depressive episode (alternative mood screening instruments may be used if so preferred). See Criteria for Depressive Episode.

A previous history of mood disturbance associated with cessation may be assessed by asking the question:

Previously, when quitting smoking, did you notice significant emotional changes?

Yes No

Maintain high vigilance for recurrence of depression.
[Reference 2 p.39]