Major Depressive Episode

A Major Depressive Episode is not a diagnosis, but rather a change in mood that is accompanied by other symptoms of clinical depression.  A Major Depressive Episode occurs within the context of Major Depressive Disorder or a Bipolar Disorder.

A Major Depressive Episode consists of a period of at least two weeks in which the person has experienced depressed mood or a loss interest or pleasure in his or her usual activities during most of the day, nearly every day. Depressed mood and loss of interest may come in the form of subjective feelings of sadness or emptiness or can be based on the observations of others.

Some individuals experience a change in appetite, which may result in a decrease or increase in the amount or types of food eaten. In turn, the person may lose or weight gain.

Many people experience significant sleep problems while depressed, including having difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up earlier than intended. However, some people experience a need for excessive sleep.

Most people have less motivation and often feel out of energy and fatigued throughout the day. Some people's movements and speech actually speed up or slow down when they are depressed which is called psychomotor agitation or psychomotor retardation, respectively.

Although sometimes only a subjective feeling, some individuals experience impairments in concentration and memory, which should improve with treatment of depression.

Negative thoughts about oneself in the form of excessive guilt, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness regarding one's life situation or the future are almost always present.

In turn, many individuals think about their own death or begin to actively consider suicide. Recurrent thoughts of suicide and even developing a suicide plan, especially if the person has previously attempted suicide, is a strong indication that the individual should visit his or her family physician. If someone is at risk of attempting suicide, the person should be taken to the local emergency department immediately or call the local Distress Line.

Depending on the number and severity of symptoms, a Major Depressive Episode can be considered Mild, Moderate, Severe without Psychotic Features, or Severe with Psychotic Features. Psychotic Features are abnormal perceptions (i.e., voices, visions) or odd or unusual beliefs that are not present when the person is not depressed. Such individuals should contact their family physician as soon as possible.

There are a number of Physical Conditions that can cause symptoms similar to a Major Depressive Episode. Consult with a physician that you trust in order to have a full medical examination prior to concluding that what you are experiencing is depression without any physical basis.

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression contact one of our psychologists today at either the Calgary (403-313-8309) or Vancouver (1-877-313-8309) office to find out how we can help. You can also contact us by e-mail.

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