Depressive, bipolar, and related disorders

1. A

   Medical documentation of a depressive, bipolar, or related disorder characterized by 5+ of the depressive criteria (depressed mood, anhedonia, weight/appetite change, sleep disturbance, observed psychomotor changes, decreased energy, feelings of guilt/worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, suicidal ideation) OR 3+ bipolar criteria.

   In plain terms: Have you been diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, or a related mood disorder by a doctor or therapist?

   Evidence required:Treating physician reportMental status exam
2. B

   Understand, remember, or apply information — degree of limitation: extreme, marked, moderate, mild, or no limitation.

   In plain terms: When you're given new information — like instructions for a task or directions — how hard is it for you to understand and remember and apply it?

3. B

   Interact with others — degree of limitation.

   In plain terms: How are you doing being around people — family, friends, or strangers? Are interactions with others a real struggle, or manageable?

4. B

   Concentrate, persist, or maintain pace.

   In plain terms: How is your concentration these days? Can you stay on task — like reading or watching a show — or do thoughts skip and you lose focus?

5. B

   Adapt or manage oneself.

   In plain terms: How are you doing managing your daily life — basic things like hygiene, meals, getting up and out the door?

6. C

   Serious and persistent: medically documented history of the disorder over ≥2 years, with evidence of (1) ongoing medical treatment, mental health therapy, or psychosocial support; AND (2) marginal adjustment — minimal capacity to adapt to changes or new demands.

   In plain terms: Have you had this condition for at least two years, with ongoing treatment, and a history where small life changes really destabilize you?

   Evidence required:Treating physician report

Other mental disorders listings