What condition involves feelings of sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness lasting at least two weeks?

Major Depressive Disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness that last for at least two weeks. This condition is not just a temporary reaction to stress or life events; it encompasses a range of symptoms that significantly impair daily functioning. In addition to the primary emotional symptoms, individuals may also experience changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and difficulty concentrating.

The criteria for Major Depressive Disorder are clearly outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which specifies the duration and severity of symptoms necessary for diagnosis. This makes it distinct from other mental health conditions, which present different symptom profiles and duration requirements.

In contrast, the other conditions listed involve different sets of symptoms and diagnostic criteria, making them unsuitable for this specific description of emotional state. For example, Generalized Anxiety Disorder primarily involves excessive worry and anxiety rather than persistent sadness. Panic Disorder focuses on recurrent panic attacks and fear of future attacks rather than ongoing feelings of sadness. Dissociative Amnesia is characterized by memory loss related to personal information, not emotional states.

Thus, Major Depressive Disorder is the condition that corresponds to prolonged feelings of sadness and emptiness lasting at least two weeks