Table 2.

Criteria for Major Depressive Episode (MDE)

Five (or more) of the following symptoms have been present during the same 2-week period and represent a change from previous functioning; at least one of the symptoms is either (1) depressed mood or (2) loss of interest or pleasure. Depressed, sad mood Decreased interest/pleasure in activities Significant weight loss/gain or decreased/increased appetite Insomnia or hypersomnia Psychomotor agitation or retardation Fatigue Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt Decreased ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation with or without a plan or suicide attempt The symptoms do not meet criteria for a mixed episode (manic and depressive symptoms together). The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The symptoms are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance. (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or a general medical condition (e.g., hypothyroidism). The symptoms are not better accounted for by bereavement, i.e., after the loss of a loved one.

Criteria for Minor Depression

2–4 symptoms lasting for at least 2 weeks

Criteria B–E for major depression above

Adapted from: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. 1994 American Psychiatric Association