What are the key symptoms of depression according to the DSM-5?

The key symptoms of depression as outlined in the DSM-5 include a range of emotional and cognitive difficulties, prominently featuring loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, known as anhedonia. Fatigue is another critical symptom, reflecting the diminished energy and motivation that individuals often experience. Difficulty concentrating is also a hallmark of depression, as it affects a person's ability to focus on tasks, make decisions, or even engage in conversations.

These symptoms coalesce to form a clear picture of how depression can impact daily functioning and overall mental well-being. The inclusion of loss of interest, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating captures the comprehensive nature of depression’s effects, aligning closely with clinical observations and criteria used for diagnosis. This multifaceted presentation underscores the need for clinical vigilance and a thorough understanding of depressive disorders in psychiatric nursing practice.

On the other hand, the other options present incomplete or misleading symptomatology. For instance, persistent sadness and fatigue alone do not encompass the breadth of symptoms necessary for a diagnosis of depression, omitting crucial aspects like loss of interest or cognitive difficulties. Changes in appetite and social withdrawal represent symptoms that may be associated with depression, but focusing solely on these overlooks other significant signs. Finally, focusing on physical symptoms rather than emotional