Depressive Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition
A condition involving a prominent and persistent period of depressed mood or loss of interest, judged to be the direct physiological result of a medical condition.
Overview
Depressive disorder due to another medical condition involves a prominent and persistent period of depressed mood or markedly diminished interest or pleasure, judged to be the direct physiological consequence of an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid disease, certain cancers, or neurological conditions.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, and changes in sleep or appetite, occurring in close relationship to the underlying medical condition. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
This condition can result from conditions such as thyroid disorders, certain neurological conditions, chronic illness, or other medical conditions that directly affect brain function regulating mood.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy may help alongside treatment of the underlying medical condition, particularly for coping with chronic illness.
Medication
Antidepressant medication may be considered alongside treatment of the underlying medical cause. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Depressive Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition
Identifying and treating the underlying medical cause is an essential first step in evaluation.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Outcomes depend substantially on successful identification and treatment of the underlying medical condition.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.