Is depression considered a past medical history?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
If you have ever been clearly diagnosed with depression by a hospital, you must disclose this history truthfully when providing medical history information during healthcare visits, purchasing commercial insurance, or in similar situations, regardless of whether you are currently cured or your symptoms have improved. This is because depression may be associated with other medical conditions or influence the choice of certain treatment plans, and failure to disclose it could negatively affect subsequent medical care or your rights to insurance coverage.
Generally, depression falls under the category of past medical history. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional in advance. The detailed explanation is as follows:
If you have ever been clearly diagnosed with depression by a hospital, regardless of whether you are currently cured or your symptoms have improved, you must truthfully disclose this prior illness when providing medical history information during healthcare visits or purchasing commercial insurance. This is because depression may be associated with other diseases or influence certain treatment decisions; concealing such information could negatively impact subsequent medical care or your rights to insurance coverage.
If you have only experienced symptoms such as low mood but have not sought professional diagnosis at a hospital and have not been formally diagnosed with depression, then it does not count as part of your past medical history. In such cases, if emotional issues persist or worsen, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation. Only after a clear assessment should you determine whether related health conditions need to be documented.
Honestly reporting your past medical history is a crucial prerequisite for ensuring accurate diagnosis and treatment, as well as protecting your own rights. Do not withhold relevant health information due to concerns.
