Typical symptoms are |
• Depressed mood – varies little from day to day, often unresponsive to circumstances. May show diurnal variation. Can be masked by added features such as irritability, alcohol, and histrionic behaviour. |
• Loss of interest and enjoyment. |
• Reduced energy leading to increased fatigability and diminished activity. |
Other symptoms are |
a) reduced concentration and attention |
b) reduced self-esteem and self-confidence |
c) ideas of guilt and unworthiness |
d) bleak and pessimistic views of the future |
e) ideas of self harm |
f) disturbed sleep |
g) diminished appetite |
Mild Depressive Episode: Two 'typical' symptoms plus at least 2 'other' for 2 weeks. Usually distressed by the symptoms and has some difficulty in continuing with ordinary work and social activities, but will probably not cease to function completely. |
Moderate Depressive Episode: Two 'typical' plus at leas 3 'other' preferable 4 and to marked degree. |
Severe Depressive Episode: Considerable distress or agitation (or retardation). |