Diagnostic Criteria for Depression
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA for MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER DSM-IVPresence of 5 or more of the following during the same 2 week period and represent a change from previous functioning. a) depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day b) markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities c) significant change in weight or appetite – either increase or decrease d) insomnia e) agitation nearly every day f) fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day g) feelings of worthlessness h) diminished ability to think or concentrate i) recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation or suicide attempt The symptoms must not be due to another mental illness or be the effects of drugs or medical illness. They must cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning. THERE IS NO DEFINITIVE DIAGNOSTIC TEST FOR DEPRESSION
Diagnosis is made by “talking” to people – it is not a great way to diagnose an illness – but it’s all the psychiatrist has !