Major Depressive Disorder Characteristics

The American Psychiatric Association recognizes nine symptoms of major depressive disorder as cited in the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). These characteristics are both psychological and physical and must not be caused by a recent significant loss, such as death of a loved one.

Definitive Characteristics

• To be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, you must have a depressed mood along with a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities. These are the two definitive symptoms. They must be present every day or nearly every day for at least 2 weeks and have a negative impact on your functioning.

Further Criteria

• To be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, you must have at least four of the additional seven symptoms, according to the DSM-IV.

Other Psychological Characteristics

• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness along with difficulty concentrating and making decisions are two symptoms commonly seen in patients with major depressive disorder.

Suicidal Thoughts

• Suicidal thoughts and recurring thoughts about death may also be a component of this diagnosis. It is especially significant if there is a specific plan for suicide or an attempt.

Physical Symptoms

• Loss of energy, significant decrease or increase in appetite, insomnia or increased sleep and psychomotor agitation or retardation are the four additional symptoms that may be present in major depressive disorder.