Over the past two years, Kelly has experienced depressive episodes three different times. Two of the three episodes occurred in the winter and the third occurred last fall. It is now winter and Kelly's depressive symptoms once again are consistent with major depressive disorder. Which of the following diagnoses should she be given?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kelly meets the criteria for recurrent major depressive disorder, as she has experienced three separate episodes of major depression. The fact that two of the episodes occurred in the winter suggests that she may also meet the seasonal pattern specifier, making the full diagnosis recurrent major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern. Choices A and B are not applicable as they refer to different types of depressive disorders. Choice C is close to being correct but does not take into account the seasonal pattern specifier.

Over the Past Two Years, Kelly Has Experienced Depressive Episodes