DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder

By Dr. Costa / July 1, 2025

Diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD).

DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Calculator

DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder

Check the criteria that have been met during the same 2-week period.

Criterion A: Symptoms

Select at least five of the following nine symptoms, including at least one of the first two (Depressed Mood or Loss of Interest/Pleasure).

1. Depressed MoodMost of the day, nearly every day.

2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure (Anhedonia)In all, or almost all, activities most of the day, nearly every day.

3. Significant weight loss or gain, or decrease/increase in appetitee.g., a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month.

4. Insomnia or hypersomniaNearly every day.

5. Psychomotor agitation or retardationNearly every day and observable by others.

6. Fatigue or loss of energyNearly every day.

7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive/inappropriate guiltNearly every day.

8. Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisivenessNearly every day.

9. Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or a suicide attempt/plan

Criterion B, C, D, E: Clinical Significance & Exclusions

The following must also be true for a diagnosis.

B: Clinically significant distress or impairmentThe symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

C, D, E: Episode is not attributable to other conditionsThe episode is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition; is not better explained by another mental disorder; and there has never been a manic or hypomanic episode.

For Educational Use Only: This tool is intended to help understand the DSM-5 criteria for Major Depressive Disorder. It is not a diagnostic tool and does not replace a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

Author

Dr. Costa
Specialty Doctor, NHS, UK

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DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder

Criterion A: Symptoms

Criterion B, C, D, E: Clinical Significance & Exclusions

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