Depression


Major Depression

















A major risk factor for suicidality is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). There are clear criteria for making this diagnosis:

ONE of the following for at least 2 weeks:
  • Depressed or irritable mood for most of the day nearly every day
  • Diminished interest or pleasure in activities that you used to be interested in or enjoy doing
AND at least 4 of the following symptoms:
  • Decreased/increased appetite, weight loss or gain, failure to achieve expected weight gain
  • Insomnia or hypersomnia
  • Psychomotor agitation/retardation or restlessness
  • Low energy or fatigue
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
  • Poor concentration/memory
  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide



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