Major Depression

The DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 1994) includes many different descriptions of specific manifestations of depressive symptoms. However, as most of them include at least one "episode," I will include the criteria for a major depressive episode and leave the specific diagnosis to your mental health provider.

At least five of the following symptoms during the same 2 week period, representing a significant change from normal functioning. Presence of either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in activities/lifestyle that you would normally enjoy.

Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day
Significant decrease in interest or pleasure in all or most of the activities that are normally enjoyed
Significant weight gain or decrease in weight without dieting . Increase or decrease in appetite.
Sleeping too much or not enough
Others can see that you are either physically restless or slower-moving than usual Loss of energy
Feeling worthless or inappropriately guilty
Difficulty thinking and concentrating, difficulty making decisions
Thinking about death, thinking of killing yourself, planning to kill yourself, attempting to kill yourself

It is not considered depression if these symptoms are caused by a medical condition (some medical conditions, such as hypothymia, have symptoms that look a lot like depression, but are caused by illness), substance use (like drinking heavily, coming down from cocaine, or certain prescription drugs), or grieving the loss of a loved one.

Because these symptoms are very common in other mental disorders, differentiating depression from other possible diagnoses can be challenging. This is why psychological testing can help your therapist and/or doctor figure out what is going on with you so that he or she can provide the appropriate treatment.

Depression is often co-morbid (this means it occurs at the same time as another disorder or illness) with other mental health and physical disorders. The more information you can provide to your therapist/doctor about any physical and mental changes you have experienced, the more likelihood that she or he can understand what your experience is and help you with it.