Email a Friend
Print ArticleMedical Dictionary
major depression
- a mental disorder characterized by sustained depression of mood, anhedonia, sleep and appetite disturbances, and feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and hopelessness. Diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode (DSM-IV) include a depressed mood, a marked reduction of interest or pleasure in virtually all activities, or both, lasting for at least 2 weeks. In addition, 3 or more of the following must be present: gain or loss of weight, increased or decreased sleep, increased or decreased level of psychomotor activity, fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, diminished ability to concentrate, and recurring thoughts of death or suicide. See: endogenous depression, exogenous depression, bipolar disorder
Syn: clinical depression, major depressive disorder (1)
WebMD Medical Reference from "Stedman's Medical Dictionary"
The publisher is not responsible (as a matter of product liability,
negligence or otherwise) for any injury resulting from any material contained
herein. This publication contains information relating to general principles of
medical care which should not be construed as specific instructions for
individual patients. Manufacturers’ product information and package inserts
should be reviewed for current information, including contraindications,
dosages and precautions.
Stedman’s Medical Dictionary 28th Edition, Copyright© 2006_Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. All rights reserved.
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
Deadly Bacteria: Are You at Risk?
Even after a meningitis vaccination, experts stress knowing the disease’s early warning signs is critical.
Most Popular Stories
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.