Depression
The DSM, published by the APA breaks depression into many types and subtypes. The most serious of these is Major Depressive Disorder.
To fall into this category, a patient must have experienced at least one major depressive episode, defined as:
- A period of at least 2 weeks during which there is either a depressed mood or the loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities.
In children and adolescents, the mood may be more irritable than sad. The individual also experiences at least four additional symptoms drawn from a list that includes appetite or weight, sleep and psychomotor activity; decreased energy, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions, or recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation.
Major Depressive Disorder is a serious illness with a high risk of suicide.
This condition requires competent management by mental health professionals, in charge a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist,
Major depression requires standard therapy and medication.