Which subtype of depression is characterized by lack of reactivity, worsened mood in the morning, and excessive guilt?

Melancholic depression is characterized by distinct features that include a lack of reactivity to pleasurable stimuli, meaning that individuals do not experience improvements in mood even when positive events occur. This type of depression often presents with a prominent depressive mood that may be more severe in the morning, which can be attributed to biological rhythms influencing mood patterns. Additionally, individuals with melancholic depression frequently report feelings of excessive guilt, which can have a debilitating effect on their self-esteem and overall functioning.

The characteristics of melancholic depression make it important for diagnosis and treatment planning, as these symptoms can guide clinicians in selecting appropriate therapeutic approaches and interventions tailored to this specific subtype of depression.