ANSWERS: 1
  • Subthreshold depression, or "mild depression," is defined as having fewer symptoms than required for a DSM-IV diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD). (DSM-IV is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association. In the United States, it is the primary system used to classify and diagnose mental disorders.) This means that while subthreshold depression can have similar symptoms to MDD, and still cause functional impairment, it does not meet the set clinical criteria to be considered major depression.

    Causes

    Subthreshold depression and a major depressive disorder can have similar demographic, social and physical health predictors. These causes can include the loss of a loved one, changing jobs, divorce, never being married or losses associated with aging.

    Symptoms

    Symptoms of subthreshold depression can include impaired physical function, taking more time off from a job, isolation, unexplained tiredness and use of medications.

    Demographics

    Also known as subsyndromal or subclinical depression, subthreshold depression is more prevalent in the elderly. Declines in physical and mental health, loss of loved ones, reduced income and loss of independence are all factors shown to increase minor depression symptoms in older adults. Minor depression is also more likely to affect females, due to biological and cognitive differences between genders.

    Research

    Studies show that subthreshold depression has a significant impact on quality of life, causes high health care costs and consistently increases the risk for developing major depressive disorder. Many cases go undiagnosed and untreated. Researchers continue to push for better funding for analysis, diagnosis and treatment of this depression.

    Treatment

    The current treatment for subthreshold depression includes therapy or counseling. The use of antidepressants is also an option.

    Source:

    Science Direct

    Depression Threshold Study

    BioMed Health Services

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