Melancholic Depression is a type of major depression that tends to be diagnosed more often in older individuals, and appears to affect men and women equally. According to the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders," there are eight symptoms that make up the diagnostic criteria for melancholic depression, four of which need to be met to diagnose melancholic depression.
Loss of Pleasure
A person must report or exhibit a loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities. For example, a person may have loved to go camping, but he no longer experiences interest or enjoyment in camping since becoming depressed.
Lack of Reactivity to Pleasant Events
A person with melancholic depression may have difficulty reacting positively to a pleasant event or situation. Her mood may slightly improve in response to something positive, but will likely revert back to her previously depressed mood.
Distinctly Depressed Mood
A person may report or exhibit a depressed mood that is obviously different from his mood when he is not depressed, or when he is sad in response to a situation or event.
A.M. Depression
Symptoms of melancholic depression are typically worse in the morning than at other times of the day. This can be based on self report or observation.
Early Morning Awakening
Early morning awakening is defined as waking up at least two hours before the usual wake-up time. This early awakening is not a result of being awakened by an outside influence (e.g., alarm clock, loud noise, etc.).
Psychomotor Retardation or Agitation
Psychomotor retardation is significantly decreased activity or movements that are much slower than usual. Psychomotor agitation is the opposite---increased activity or movements that are much faster than usual. These changes can often be observed by other people.
Weight Loss
People with melancholic depression may experience significant weight loss, perhaps to the point of anorexia.
Excessive Guilt
Excessive guilt is characterized by feeling guilt that is an inappropriate response to a situation or event. For example, a person may accidentally dial a wrong number, and feel excessive guilt about doing so that would be more intense or last longer than what is usual in such a situation.
References
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -- Fourth Edition -- Text Revision; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- MedPageToday.com: APA: Melancholic Depression Responds Better to Deep Brain Stimulation
