## 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).
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