DSM-5 MDD Diagnostic Criteria — Major Depressive Disorder

The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) provide the standardized clinical diagnostic framework for this highly prevalent psychiatric condition. MDD is diagnosed when five or more specific symptoms are present during the same 2-week period, representing a change from previous functioning, with at least one symptom being either (1) depressed mood or (2) loss of interest/pleasure. These nine criteria (SIGECAPS mnemonic: Sleep, Interest, Guilt, Energy, Concentration, Appetite, Psychomotor, Suicidality) must cause significant social or occupational impairment and not be attributable to substances, medical conditions, or other psychiatric disorders.