In Major Depressive Disorder, symptoms must cause what?

• A. Distress or impairment
• B. Suicidal intent
• C. Mania
• D. Weight change

Answer: (A)

Symptoms must cause distress or impairment. This is the crucial clinical marker that makes depressive symptoms clinically significant. In Major Depressive Disorder, the collection of mood and other symptoms is only considered a disorder when it leads to noticeable suffering or a clear reduction in functioning—social, occupational, or other important areas of life. That impact is what distinguishes a temporary mood downturn from a diagnosable condition.

Remember that this criterion sits alongside other requirements, like having multiple symptoms over a two-week period and not being due to another medical condition or substance. Suicidal intent can occur with depressive episodes, but it isn’t a required diagnostic element. Mania points to a different mood disorder (bipolar spectrum), and weight changes can occur but aren’t required for the diagnosis.