|
ICD 10 definition of depression |
| 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). |
Finucane and Mercer BMC Psychiatry 2006 6:14 doi:10.1186/1471-244X-6-14 |