What is a major characteristic of a major depressive episode?

A major depressive episode is primarily characterized by a persistent depressed mood or anhedonia, which is the loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities. This symptom must be present for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. During this period, individuals may struggle with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of energy. This aligns with the core criteria used in diagnosing major depressive episodes.

Other signs may accompany this mood disturbance, including changes in appetite or sleep patterns, but the essential defining factor is the sustained period of low mood or loss of interest. The wrong choices describe scenarios that are inconsistent with the nature of a major depressive episode. For instance, persistent euphoria is indicative of conditions like bipolar disorder rather than depression, while sudden changes in appetite can occur in a variety of disorders and are not specific to depression. Lastly, excessive energy and motivation would typically not align with the symptoms of a major depressive episode, as individuals experiencing such an episode generally feel fatigued and lack drive. Thus, the correct choice focuses on the sustained emotional state that characterizes a major depressive episode.