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Criterion A

• Five or more symptoms are present during the same 2-week period and represent a change from previous functioning.
• At least one of the symptoms is either depressed mood or markedly diminished interest or pleasure.
• The symptom set may include depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day.
• The symptom set may include markedly diminished interest or pleasure in nearly all activities.
• The symptom set may include significant weight loss, weight gain, or appetite change when not dieting.
• The symptom set may include insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day.
• The symptom set may include psychomotor agitation or retardation observable by others.
• The symptom set may include fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day.
• The symptom set may include feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt.
• The symptom set may include diminished ability to think, concentrate, or make decisions.
• The symptom set may include recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, a suicide plan, or a suicide attempt.

Criterion B

• The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Criterion C

• The episode is not attributable to a substance or another medical condition.

Criterion D

• The presentation is not better explained by a schizophrenia-spectrum or other psychotic disorder.

Criterion E

• There has never been a manic or hypomanic episode unless clearly substance- or medically induced.

Related Guides

• Major Depressive Disorder Symptoms and Signs
• Major Depressive Disorder Scales and Assessment Tools
• Major Depressive Disorder Treatments and Medications
• When to Seek Professional Help for Major Depressive Disorder