How is depression diagnosed?
A diagnosis is a medical label that clarifies the course of the disease and implications for treatment.
Throughout the world, different systems of disease classifications are used for diagnoses. In Europe, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) of the World Health Organisation 10th revision is the most common.
According to this classification, the diagnosis “depressive disorder” or “depressive episode” is made when a certain number of typical symptoms are present over a period of at least 2 weeks:
At least two of the main core symptoms and two of the additional symptoms from the image below:
Depending on the number and intensity of the symptoms, mild, moderate and severe depression grades are distinguished.
In case suicidal thoughts occur, it is highly recommended that patients and/or relatives discuss this immediately with their doctor or arrange professional help. It is important to know that this is a symptom of the disease, not a conscious wish and that a person is unlikely to continue to feel this way if they receive the appropriate support.