Which statement correctly reflects DSM-5-TR criteria for Major Depressive Disorder?

Which statement correctly reflects DSM-5-TR criteria for Major Depressive Disorder?

• A. At least five symptoms must be present during a two-week period.
• B. The disorder requires at least three symptoms.
• C. Symptoms must be present for at least one month.
• D. Diagnosis requires physical exam confirmation.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that Major Depressive Disorder is diagnosed when there are five or more symptoms occurring during the same two-week period, and this set of symptoms represents a change from the person’s previous functioning. Importantly, at least one of those symptoms must be depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure (anhedonia). The duration is specifically two weeks or longer, not one month, and the symptoms must cause clinically significant distress or impairment. Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and history, not on a required physical exam finding. So the statement describing five or more symptoms over a two-week period aligns with the DSM-5-TR criteria. The other descriptions—fewer than five symptoms, a one-month duration, or a need for a physical exam to confirm the diagnosis—do not fit the official criteria.

The main idea is that Major Depressive Disorder is diagnosed when there are five or more symptoms occurring during the same two-week period, and this set of symptoms represents a change from the person’s previous functioning. Importantly, at least one of those symptoms must be depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure (anhedonia). The duration is specifically two weeks or longer, not one month, and the symptoms must cause clinically significant distress or impairment. Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and history, not on a required physical exam finding. So the statement describing five or more symptoms over a two-week period aligns with the DSM-5-TR criteria. The other descriptions—fewer than five symptoms, a one-month duration, or a need for a physical exam to confirm the diagnosis—do not fit the official criteria.