Recurrent Brief Depressive Disorder Criteria

Research Criteria for Recurrent Brief Depressive Disorder (DSM-IV-TR)

Criteria, except for duration, are met for a major depressive episode. The depressive periods in Criterion A last at least 2 days but less than 2 weeks. The depressive periods occur at least once a month for 12 consecutive months and are not associated with the menstrual cycle. The periods of depressed mood cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The symptoms are not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or a general medical condition (e.g., hypothyroidism). There has never been a major depressive episode, and criteria are not met for dysthymic disorder. There has never been a manic episode, a mixed episode, or a hypomanic episode, and criteria are not met for cyclothymic disorder. Note: This exclusion does not apply if all of the manic-, mixed-, or hypomanic-like episodes are substance or treatment induced. The mood disturbance does not occur exclusively during schizophrenia, schizophreniform disorder, schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, or psychotic disorder not otherwise specified. (From American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 4th ed. Text rev. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association; copyright 2000, with permission.)