[stmml]

Is it possible to screen for depression in someone who is nonverbal? What signs might you look for?

[ThisWayOut]

I think that similar behaviors would be key to look out for - lack of interest, lack of expressions of joy or pleasure from something that used to elicit those reactions... The level of impairment in other functioning also plays a role... are they more agitated than previously? is there a generally high level of agitation?
You did not say if there are any other impairments that would impact the diagnosis... is the person severely physically disabled as well?
If you are worried about depression, speak with their doctor or other provider. They would be able to help make a diagnosis, refer the person out to another specialist, or put your fears at ease...

[Sam2]

MdngtRain has a good point. Look for things that are not part of the normal behavior. Many verbal people don't say when they are depressed, yet you can tell by watching them. Even if you don't know someone, you can read depression in the body language.

Sam2

I would say you can observe body language in some people to determine depression, but not all, by a long shot. You can also detect depression in some people (not all, again) by the color of clothing they wear: if they prefer black uniformly or purple, or
navy blue, that is an indication of depression. Bright colors such as red, yellow, orange, white tend toward happier moods if an individual dresses primarily in bright colors.

Purple and black used top and bottom are usually strong indicators of depression in
some people.

[stmml]

Thanks, guys. The person I'm thinking of also has Down Syndrome.