Depression and Abuse

Depression and Abuse:
A person who is being abused is often depressed. It is almost inevitable.
Joy Stevens


Criteria for a Major Depressive Episode.

A person must exhibit either of the following almost daily for at least a two week period.

1. A persistent sad or depressed mood.

2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in usually pleasurable activities.

3. Plus at least any four of the following:

*significant weight loss or, atypically, weight gain
*insomnia, hypersomnia, or early morning awakening
*psychomotor agitation or retardation
*decreased energy or fatigue
*feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
*difficulty thinking,m concentrating, remembering or making decisions
*recurrent thoughts of death, suicidalidation, a suicide attempt, or a specific plan for suicide


Source: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, American Psychiatric Association, Washington, D.C., 1994