Major Depressive Disorder

Psychiatry/Behavioral · ~7% of blueprint

Pathophysiology: Multifactorial — monoamine (serotonin/norepinephrine/dopamine) dysregulation, HPA-axis overactivity, genetics.
Signs & Symptoms: ≥2 weeks of depressed mood/anhedonia plus SIGECAPS (sleep, interest, guilt, energy, concentration, appetite, psychomotor, suicidality).
Gold Standard Diagnosis: Clinical (DSM-5): ≥5 of 9 symptoms for ≥2 weeks, including mood or anhedonia (PHQ-9 to screen).
First-line Treatment: SSRIs first-line + psychotherapy (CBT); allow 4–6 weeks for response.

High-Yield Pearl

Screen with SIGECAPS; SSRIs are first-line — assess suicidality and allow weeks for effect.

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