Major depressive disorder (MDD) diagnosis requires the presence of at least how many symptoms for a minimum of 2 weeks?

The diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) requires the presence of at least five symptoms for a minimum duration of two weeks. This includes symptoms such as depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities, significant weight loss or gain, insomnia or hypersomnia, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, difficulty concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation.

The requirement for five symptoms establishes a threshold for severity and duration, reflecting how MDD impacts an individual's functioning and quality of life. Having fewer than five symptoms may suggest other mood disturbances that do not meet the criteria for MDD, thus ensuring that the diagnosis is consistent and accurate. Recognizing this specific number helps clinicians assess the condition more effectively and provides a structured approach to diagnosing and managing depression.