Mental Health Illnesses Are Common And Affect All Ages, Educational And Income Levels And Cultures

Mental health illnesses are common and affect all ages, educational and income levels and cultures. According to the Canadian Mental health Association approximately 8% of adults will experience major depression at some time in their lives. Major Depressive Disorder has a significant morbidity and mortality; that can lead to suicide, disruption in interpersonal relationship, substance abuse and loss of work time. So, early diagnosis is very important. Purpose of this section is unbiased review of leading practise guidelines, explore controversies in guidelines if available and assess risk/benefits of common treatment modalities.
Diagnosis
Proper medical history and relevant physical examination, including mental state exam are essential for assessment and planning.
DSM V explains symptoms and signs of Major Depressive Disorders and Major Depressive Episodes and many health care practitioners use as a diagnostic tool. According to the DSM V, criteria for a major depressive disorder, at least 5 of the following symptoms have to be present during the same 2 week period, and at least 1 of the symptoms must be depressed mood or diminished interest/pleasure.
≥5 of the following symptoms have been present during the same 2 wk period and represent a change from previous functioning; at least one of the symptoms is either 1) depressed mood or 2) loss of interest or pleasure (anhedonia) ƒ
• Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, as indicated by either subjective report or…