characteristics of depression

what is depression?

• mood disorder characterised by low mood, lack of energy and motivation and loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable

• symptoms must have been present for no less than two weeks and with an impairment to general functioning and evident that it is not accountable for by other medical conditions or event e.g. mourning the loss of a loved one

• can occur in cycles, with episodes of depression generally lasting between two and six months

what are the 4 DSM-5-TR categories of depression?

1. major depressive disorder

2. persistent depressive disorder

3. disruptive mood dysregulation disorder

4. premenstrual dysphoric disorder

1. major depressive disorder

severe, but often short-term (2 week) depression. experience ongoing sadness and helplessness

2. persistent depressive disorder

long-term (chronic) or re-occurring depression (2 years or more) including sustained major depression

3. disruptive mood dysregulation disorder

affects children and involves ongoing irritability and frequent temper outbursts

4. premenstrual dysphoric disorder

disruption to mood prior to and/or during menstruation

behavioural characteristics

• a shift in energy levels

• affected sleep

• affected appetite

• aggression and self harm

emotional characteristics

• sadness

• anger

• loss of interest

• low-self esteem

cognitive characteristics of depression

• negative view of the world

• irrational thoughts

• poor concentration

• inability to make decisions

• catastrophising