According to DSM-5 criteria, what is the minimum duration of symptoms required for a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder?

Question

Accepted Answer

C. At least 2 weeks. ## DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder

**Key Point:** The minimum duration of depressive symptoms required for MDD diagnosis is **2 weeks**, during which at least 5 of 9 criteria must be present (including at least one core symptom: depressed mood or anhedonia).

### Timeline Context

| Duration | Clinical Significance |
| --- | --- |
| < 2 weeks | Does not meet criteria for MDD; may be adjustment disorder or subsyndromal depression |
| 2 weeks | Minimum threshold for MDD diagnosis |
| 2 weeks with marked impairment | Full MDD diagnosis |
| > 2 weeks | Recurrent or persistent MDD |

**High-Yield:** The 2-week rule is a cornerstone of DSM-5 and is frequently tested. It distinguishes MDD from brief depressive episodes or adjustment disorders.

**Clinical Pearl:** The 2-week window must represent a change from baseline functioning. A single bad day or grief reaction does not qualify, even if severe.

**Mnemonic:** **2 WEEKS = MDD** — Remember: 2 weeks minimum, 5 symptoms, 1 core symptom (mood or anhedonia).

Answer

A. At least 4 weeks

Answer

B. At least 1 week

Answer

D. At least 1 month with functional impairment

According to DSM-5 criteria, what is the minimum duration of symptoms required for a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder?

Explanation

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder

Timeline Context

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Duration	Clinical Significance
< 2 weeks	Does not meet criteria for MDD; may be adjustment disorder or subsyndromal depression
2 weeks	Minimum threshold for MDD diagnosis
2 weeks with marked impairment	Full MDD diagnosis
> 2 weeks	Recurrent or persistent MDD