Which of the following best describes a major depressive episode?

Which of the following best describes a major depressive episode?

• A. Feelings of euphoria and excitement
• B. Short-lived moments of sadness
• C. Persistent feelings of worthlessness and lack of pleasure
• D. A brief period of irritability

Answer: (C)

A major depressive episode is characterized by a sustained period of significant depressive symptoms that impact daily functioning. This includes persistent feelings of worthlessness, which are detrimental to an individual's self-esteem, as well as anhedonia, or a lack of pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. These symptoms must typically last for at least two weeks and can significantly impair social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The other options describe experiences that do not align with the clinical severity or duration required to meet the criteria for a major depressive episode. Feelings of euphoria and excitement suggest a mood elevation that is contrary to depressive states. Short-lived moments of sadness may reflect transient emotions that do not cause a substantial impairment in daily life. A brief period of irritability might indicate mood fluctuations but does not encompass the comprehensive distress and pervasive nature of major depressive symptoms. Thus, the correct description captures the essence of the experience individuals endure during a major depressive episode.

A major depressive episode is characterized by a sustained period of significant depressive symptoms that impact daily functioning. This includes persistent feelings of worthlessness, which are detrimental to an individual's self-esteem, as well as anhedonia, or a lack of pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. These symptoms must typically last for at least two weeks and can significantly impair social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The other options describe experiences that do not align with the clinical severity or duration required to meet the criteria for a major depressive episode. Feelings of euphoria and excitement suggest a mood elevation that is contrary to depressive states. Short-lived moments of sadness may reflect transient emotions that do not cause a substantial impairment in daily life. A brief period of irritability might indicate mood fluctuations but does not encompass the comprehensive distress and pervasive nature of major depressive symptoms. Thus, the correct description captures the essence of the experience individuals endure during a major depressive episode.