What are the criterions for a depressive episode?
Answer:
According to the European ICD-10-Manual of Classification, we are talking about a depressive disturbance when the following criteria are fulfilled:
The patient has suffered for at least two weeks from at least 2 of the following 3 main symptoms:
- depressive mood
- Loss of interest and joy
- increased tiredness
In order to be able to make a clear diagnosis at least 2 of the following symptoms must be present:
- decreased ability to concentrate and pay attention
- decreased feelings of self value and self-assurance
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- negative or pessimistic thoughts about the future
- Thoughts about suicide or attempted suicide
- Sleep disturbances
- decreased appetite