Cracking the Code How Is Depression Diagnosed Today
Diagnostic Criteria
In the United States, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), is the standard classification system used by mental health professionals to diagnose depression. The DSM-5 outlines specific criteria that must be met for a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), including the presence of at least five symptoms over a two-week period2. These criteria help ensure a consistent and reliable diagnosis across different practitioners and settings.