The essential features of Adjustment Disorder involves a maladaptive reaction to an identifiable psychosocial stressor (e.g., divorce, loss of a loved one), which occurs within three months of onset of the stressor. Once the stressor has terminated, the symptoms do not persist for more than an additional six months.  The symptoms are clinically significant in that the person experiences marked distress in excess of what would be expected, or there is significant impairment in work, social, or other functioning.

The essential feature of a Major Depressive Disorder is the presence of at least one Major Depressive Episode. A Major Depressive Episode is a period of at least two weeks during which there is either depressed mood or the loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities. The individual must also experience at least four additional symptoms, including:

• Changes in appetite or weight
• Changes in sleep
• Changes in psychomotor activity
• Fatigue or decreased energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
• Recurring thoughts of death or suicidal thoughts, plans or attempts