DEFINITION

• Depressed mood is a normal emotional response to loss, disappointment, or failure.
• Major depressive disorder is an episodic illness associated with changes in mood, vital sense, and self-attitude. It leads to marked functional impairment and reduced ability to anticipate or experience pleasure or happiness. It is associated with feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, psychotic symptoms, psychomotor retardation, and/or suicidal ideation.
• Depressive disorders are common mental disorders that occur in people of all ages and ethnicities. The timing, duration, and severity of symptoms help distinguish the various depressive disorders.