What is a key diagnostic criterion for Persistent Depressive Disorder?

Persistent Depressive Disorder, also known as dysthymia, is characterized by a chronic form of depression that lasts for an extended period. One of the key diagnostic criteria is the presence of depressive symptoms that persist for at least 2 years in adults (or 1 year in children and adolescents). The SIGECAPS acronym refers to the common symptoms of depression: Sleep changes, Interest loss, Guilt, Energy loss, Concentration difficulties, Appetite changes, Psychomotor agitation or retardation, and Suicidal thoughts.

For a diagnosis of Persistent Depressive Disorder, an individual must exhibit at least 2 of these symptoms consistently for the specified duration, confirming the chronic nature of the disorder. The choice of having 5 or more SIGECAPS criteria for over 2 years aligns with this definition, differentiating Persistent Depressive Disorder from other types of depressive disorders like Major Depressive Disorder, which might feature more intense symptoms over shorter durations.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the diagnostic criteria for Persistent Depressive Disorder. For instance, symptoms lasting less than 6 months would not meet the threshold for this chronic condition. The inability to function may not be a required criterion; individuals can often function at a lower level