The Facts

Every one feels down, sad and depressed from time to time, however if these feeling are intense and persistent over time you may be one of the 1 in 5 who will experience depression at some stage in their lives.

If you are asking 'Am I depressed?' please check the criteria below and complete our free online questionnaire to find out.

Major Depressive Disorder is defined as:

For the last two weeks have you had either: 

(a) Depressed mood (most of the day, nearly every day), and/or
(b) Greatly reduced interest or pleasure, (in most or all activities nearly every day)?

Have you had at least 4 of the below symptoms for a duration of two weeks?

• Weight loss or gain (e.g., ≥5% weight change in 1 month).
• Sleeping trouble (falling or staying asleep, or sleeping more than usual).
• Either agitated or slowed behaviour.
• Energy loss or fatigue.
• Feeling worthlessness or guilt.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
• Thoughts of death.

Do these symptoms cause significant distress or difficulty in functioning at home, work, or other important areas?

Symptoms should not be due to a medical condition, drug use, bereavement or another psychological disorder (for example Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Individual should not experience mania.

Summarized from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders- Fourth Edition