Understanding Mood Assessment in Depression

A 35-year-old patient is diagnosed with major depressive disorder. During a therapy session, the nurse discusses the importance of understanding the patient’s mood fluctuations. The nurse explains that major depressive disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. These symptoms can disrupt daily life and impair social interactions.

In order to properly assess this patient's condition, the nurse must ask the patient to describe their feelings using a scale. The nurse uses a popular scale called the ___________ scale, which ranges from 1 to 10, assessing the severity of depressive symptoms.