Final answer:
A severe depressive episode involves at least two weeks of altered functioning and the presence of five or more specific symptoms. As a result, option (c) is right.
Explanation:
For a severe depressive episode to be diagnosed, the change in previous functioning must last at least 2 weeks, and the subject must exhibit 5 or more of the listed symptoms during this time. A severely depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities, significant weight loss or gain or decrease or increase in appetite, sleeplessness or excessive sleepiness, psychomotor agitation or adjournment, exhaustion or low energy, excessive or inappropriate guilt or feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly, and recurring thoughts of death or dangerous ideation are examples of these symptoms.
The two-week length criteria is critical in separating serious depressive episodes from temporary mood changes. This time span enables therapists to discover long-term patterns of impairment in everyday functioning and distinguish them from normal mood fluctuations.
It is critical to emphasize that intellectual health diagnoses are complicated and should only be determined by competent healthcare experts after a thorough examination of an individual's symptoms, history, and environment. Seeking professional assistance is critical for correct diagnosis and treatment of serious depressive episodes.