In the United States today, psychological symptoms are organized into
diagnostic categories written by the American Psychiatric Association
(APA) and currently known as DSM 4 criteria. These
categories are pragmatic constructs and do not capture the richness of
mental and emotional life. However, they are useful in determining whether
medication might reduce your symptoms and, if so, which medications should
be tried.
There are several sub-categories of depression. The most common are
major depression and dysthymia.
Basic criteria for major depression are (literally) one symptom
from column A and four symptoms from column B, lasting for at least two
weeks.
Criteria for Major Depression
Column A (must include 1 of these)
Column B (must include 4 of these)
Feeling depressed (down, sad, blue, hopeless) most of the
day and almost every day. It can evolve gradually over a few
weeks or suddenly after great stress.
Loss of interest and pleasure in things that are usually interesting
and pleasurable; this can be partial or complete. Some people
may not be able to feel better no matter what the circumstances;
others may periodically respond to positive things by feeling
better.
Loss of appetite and/or weight loss without dieting or medical
cause, or increase in appetite and/or undesired weight
gain.
Insomnia (waking up early and not being able to fall back
asleep; difficulty falling asleep), or sleeping too much.
Being slowed down physically or mentally. You and other people
notice that it takes you longer than usual to accomplish activities.
Being agitated (restless, can't sit still, pacing, wringing
hands, rubbing head).
Fatigue; loss of energy.
Feeling excessively guilty or worthless.
Difficulty in concentrating. Feeling that your thinking is
slowed down. Increased difficulty in making small decisions.
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