Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What is the duration criteria for a Major Depressive Disorder diagnosis?

1. At least one week

2. At least two weeks

3. At least one month

4. At least six months

The correct answer is: At least two weeks

The duration criteria for a Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) diagnosis is at least two weeks. This timeframe is crucial as it reflects the minimum period that an individual must experience depressive symptoms for a formal diagnosis to be made. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the symptoms must cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Experiencing symptoms for a shorter duration, such as one week, is insufficient for the diagnosis of MDD, as it does not capture the chronic nature and impact of the condition on an individual's daily life. Similarly, a duration of one month or six months extends beyond the necessary timeframe, which can lead to potential misdiagnosis or misunderstanding of the disorder's acute versus chronic manifestations. The two-week requirement thus serves as a standardized benchmark for clinicians to determine the presence of Major Depressive Disorder accurately.