Which are differentiating features of Major Depressive Disorder?

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is characterized by a variety of symptoms that significantly impact an individual’s emotional state, behavior, and overall functioning. One of the key differentiating features of MDD is the presence of persistent sadness and feelings of worthlessness. Individuals with MDD often experience a pervasive low mood that lasts for most of the day, nearly every day, along with a sense of hopelessness or inability to cope, which can manifest as feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.

These emotional symptoms are crucial for the diagnosis of MDD and are prominent in distinguishing it from other conditions. While other options may include symptoms that can be associated with different mood disorders or mental health conditions, they do not encapsulate the core aspects of Major Depressive Disorder. For example, feelings of persistent joy and high energy levels contradict the essence of MDD, which is characterized by low mood. Similarly, excessive relaxation and sociability do not align with MDD symptoms, which generally include social withdrawal and decreased interest in activities. Lastly, while physical symptoms of anxiety and agitation can occur in various disorders, the hallmark features of MDD focus primarily on the mood disturbances of sadness and worthlessness.