Which of the following is NOT a symptom of major depressive disorder?

• A. Changes in appetite or weight
• B. Manic episodes characterized by elevated mood and increased energy
• C. Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities
• D. Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) by reviewing the common symptoms, which typically include changes in appetite or weight, loss of interest or pleasure in most activities (anhedonia), and persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness.
2. Step 2: Recognize that MDD is characterized by depressive symptoms and does not include symptoms related to elevated mood or increased energy.
3. Step 3: Identify that manic episodes, which involve elevated mood and increased energy, are characteristic of Bipolar Disorder, not Major Depressive Disorder.
4. Step 4: Compare each option against the known symptoms of MDD to determine which one does not fit the disorder's symptom profile.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the symptom 'Manic episodes characterized by elevated mood and increased energy' is NOT a symptom of Major Depressive Disorder.