According to DSM-5 criteria for a Major Depressive Episode, what is the minimum number of symptoms required, over what duration, and which symptoms must be present?
- A At least five symptoms for 2 weeks, with either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure mandatory ✓
- B At least four symptoms for 2 weeks, with depressed mood mandatory
- C At least five symptoms for 1 month, with fatigue and sleep disturbance mandatory
- D At least seven symptoms for 2 weeks, with depressed mood and anhedonia both mandatory
Correct answer: A. At least five symptoms for 2 weeks, with either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure mandatory
Explanation
DSM-5 requires five or more of nine depressive symptoms present during the same 2-week period representing a change from previous functioning, and at least one must be depressed mood or markedly diminished interest or pleasure (anhedonia). Option B is wrong because four symptoms never suffice and depressed mood alone need not be present if anhedonia is. Option D is wrong because both cardinal symptoms together are not required, and seven symptoms is not a threshold.
Reference: Kaplan and Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
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