Canadian Medical Guide > Psychiatry and Psychology > Mental Disorders > Mood Disorders > Depressive Disorder Terms and Definitions




Depressive Disorder

Medical Definition: An affective disorder manifested by either a dysphoric mood or loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities. The mood disturbance is prominent and relatively persistent.
Guide Notes: do not confuse with DEPRESSION: see note there; depression lasting over 2 years = DYSTHYMIC DISORDER
Also Called: Melancholia,Unipolar Depression,Depression, Endogenous,Depressive Syndrome,Depression, Neurotic
Previously Indexed: Adjustment Disorders (1966-1980),Depression (1966-1980)
Depressive Disorder Categories.
Canadian Medical Guide Definition Depression, Involutional - Marked depression appearing in the involution period and characterized by hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and agitation.
Canadian Medical Guide Definition Dysthymic Disorder - Chronically depressed mood that occurs for most of the day more days than not for at least 2 years. The required minimum duration in children to make this diagnosis is 1 year. During periods of depressed mood, at least 2 of the following additional symptoms are present: poor appetite or overeating, insomnia or hypersomnia, low energy or fatigue, low self esteem, poor concentration or difficulty making decisions, and feelings of hopelessness. (DSM-IV)
Canadian Medical Guide Definition Seasonal Affective Disorder - A syndrome characterized by depressions that recur annually at the same time each year, usually during the winter months. Other symptoms include anxiety, irritability, decreased energy, increased appetite (carbohydrate cravings), increased duration of sleep, and weight gain. SAD (seasonal affective disorder) can be treated by daily exposure to bright artificial lights (PHOTOTHERAPY), during the season of recurrence.

Depressive Disorder Medical Definitions and Terms

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