Major Depressive Disorder in DSM-5: Criteria and Specifications

Depression, a common mental health condition, is characterized by persistently low mood and loss of interest in activities. It can profoundly impact daily life, affecting how a person thinks, feels, and functions. The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides the criteria for diagnosing Major Depressive Disorder, a specific form of depression. This article outlines the DSM-5 criteria for Major Depressive Disorder and discusses some important classifications within the diagnosis.

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DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder

The DSM-5 sets forth specific criteria to diagnose Major Depressive Disorder. An individual must have experienced five or more of the following symptoms during the same two-week period, representing a change from previous functioning. At least one of the symptoms should be either a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure.

1. Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day.
2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities most of the day, nearly every day.
3. Significant weight loss or gain, or decrease or increase in appetite.
4. Insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day.
5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation nearly every day.
6. Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day.
7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
8. Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness.
9. Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation without a specific plan, or a suicide attempt.

The symptoms must cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. They must not be attributable to substance use or another medical condition.

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Specifiers for Major Depressive Disorder in DSM-5

The DSM-5 includes several specifiers to describe the current or most recent depressive episode. These specifiers help to provide additional information about the course and features of the disorder.

1. With Anxious Distress: This specifier applies when there are features of anxiety present with the depressive episode.
2. With Mixed Features: This specifier indicates the presence of manic symptoms alongside a depressive episode.
3. With Melancholic Features: This specifier applies when the individual exhibits anhedonia and other specific symptoms.
4. With Atypical Features: This specifier is used when mood reactivity and other specific features are present.
5. With Psychotic Features: This specifier applies when delusions or hallucinations are present during the depressive episode.

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Final Thoughts

The DSM-5 provides a well-defined framework for diagnosing Major Depressive Disorder. Its explicit criteria and specifiers ensure a robust, reliable diagnosis, which forms the basis for effective treatment planning. It's crucial to remember that only trained healthcare professionals should diagnose depression or any other mental health disorder. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it's essential to seek professional help.

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