Clinical characteristics of Depression Previous exam question: Outline the clinical characteristics of depression. (4 marks)

Depression is classified as a affective or mood disorder The symptoms of major depression can be divided into four categorise – behavioural, physical, emotional and cognitive To be diagnosed with major depression, a doctor or psychiatrist would look for symptoms described in one of the mental health criteria manuals: ICD-10 and the DSM-V

Persistent sadness or low mood Marked loss of interest or pleasure DSM At least one of the following, occurring most days, most of the time for at least two weeks:   Persistent sadness or low mood Marked loss of interest or pleasure PLUS at least five of these: Disturbed sleep Loss of appetite or weight Fatigue, low energy Agitated or slower movements Poor concentration, hard to make decisions Feeling worthless or inappropriate guilt Suicidal thoughts or acts ICD All three of the following must be present: Persistent sadness or low mood present most days, most of the time for at least two weeks Loss of interest or pleasure Fatigue or low energy PLUS most of the following to give a total of at least 8: Disturbed sleep Loss of appetite Poor concentration and attention Low self-esteem and self-confidence Feeling guilty and unworthy Suicidal thoughts, acts or self-harm Bleak, pessimistic views of the future