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Clinical depression - what are the physical symptoms?

Clinical Depression Symptoms or Symptoms of Major Depression as they are sometimes called, are widespread and varied. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or DSM IV lays out the diagnostic criteria for a number of mental illnesses, including clinical depression. It should however be kept in mind that individual responses to mental illness may vary and symptoms may present themselves differently in each case.

According to the manual, in order for a disorder to be classified as Clinical Depression it should involve a Major Depressive Episode or Major Depressive Episodes and no Hypomanic, Mixed or Manic Episodes. Major Depressive Episodes may be Single or Recurrent, but should not be the result of any form of Schizophrenic, Delusional or Psychotic Disorder.

The only qualification to this is if Manic, Mixed, Hypomanic, Delusional, Psychotic or Schizophrenic Episodes occur in addition to Depressive Episodes as a result of some form of medication which has been prescribed to ease Major Depressive Symptoms.

The criteria for a Major Depressive Episode include a change in functioning in the form of a loss of interest in typically pleasurable activities or a depressed mood. These symptoms must be present during the same two week period. In addition, individuals must also experience four or more of the following symptoms within the same time frame:

•  A significant change in appetite and/or body weight.

•  Oversleeping or suffering from insomnia on a daily basis.

•  A marked decrease in energy levels and the constant sensation of being fatigued.

•  Feeling guilty, worthless and self critical most of the time.

•  The inability to concentrate, make decisions or focus on specific tasks the majority of the time.

•  Recurrent thoughts about death and dying and attempts at suicide.

•  Psychomotor retardation or agitation on almost a daily basis.

The symptoms should significantly impair an individual's ability to function effectively and should not meet the criteria for a mixed episode. In addition, the symptoms should not be due to the use of substances of any kind or the result of a general medical condition. Finally, symptoms should not be a natural reaction to the loss of a loved one and should either last for longer than 2 months or alternatively be characterized by psychomotor retardation, suicidal ideation, psychotic symptoms, a morbid preoccupation with worthlessness or marked functional impairment. Individuals who find themselves fitting the diagnostic criteria for clinical depression should immediately seek treatment from a qualified medical practitioner and/ or psychologist.

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