The following information is provided by Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories. For a diagnosis of a major depressive episode, at least five of the following symptoms must be present during the same 2-week period and must represent a change from previous functioning. These symptoms must include at least one of the first two listed. Impaired ability to concentrate or indecisiveness Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation, or suicide attempt or plan 2.
Depression is a prevalent, serious, and potentially disabling disorder.
The effects of untreated depression can be far reaching, not only causing a decline in quality of life, but also generating quantifiable costs to society. Although it is common, major depression is underdiagnosed and undertreated in the primary care setting. However, patients with depression often present with somatic symptoms, and less than one-third of these patients will be accurately diagnosed and actively treated. 2 Recognition and treatment of depression are critical for a variety of reasons. First, patients with depression find themselves in a state of ongoing morbid dysfunction.