Recurrent brief depression

Recurrent brief depression, abbreviated RBD, is a mental disorder characterized by intermittent depressive episodes that are not related to the menstrual cycle in women and occur roughly six to twelve times a year. The pattern must continue for at least a year. Each episode meets the diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode in DSM-IV and ICD-10 in every respect except length, since an episode lasts less than 14 days and typically five to seven. Despite the short duration the episodes are severe, and suicidal ideation and impaired functioning are rather common. Most patients also report anxiety and increased irritability, and hypersomnia is frequent. RBD may be the only mental disorder present, but it can also occur as part of a history of recurrent major depressive episodes or bipolar disorders, and it is seen in some patients with personality disorders.