major_depression_index: Major Depression Index (MDI)

In cliot: Clinical Indices and Outcomes Tools

Major Depression Index (MDI)

Description

Calculates the Major Depression Index (MDI) score, a self-rating scale used to measure the severity of depressive symptoms. It evaluates 10 items (with sub-items for psychomotor and appetite changes) on a 0-5 scale based on frequency over the last 2 weeks. The scoring logic takes the maximum value for items 8 (restlessness vs. slowed down) and 10 (reduced vs. increased appetite).

Usage

major_depression_index(low_spirits, loss_of_interest, lacking_energy,
                       self_confidence, guilt, suicidal_ideation, concentration,
                       restlessness, slowed_down, sleep_trouble, reduced_appetite,
                       increased_appetite)

Arguments

low_spirits	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of feeling low in spirits or sad.
loss_of_interest	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of losing interest in daily activities.
lacking_energy	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of lacking energy/strength.
self_confidence	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of feeling less self-confident.
guilt	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of having a bad conscience or feelings of guilt.
suicidal_ideation	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of feeling that life isn't worth living.
concentration	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of trouble concentrating.
restlessness	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of feeling very restless (8a).
slowed_down	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of feeling subdued or slowed down (8b).
sleep_trouble	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of trouble sleeping at night.
reduced_appetite	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of reduced appetite (10a).
increased_appetite	Numeric (0-5). Frequency of increased appetite (10b).

Details

Scoring Key (Frequency over last 2 weeks): 0 = At no time 1 = Some of the time 2 = Slightly less than half the time 3 = Slightly more than half the time 4 = Most of the time 5 = All the time

Value

A list containing:

MDI_Score	The calculated total score (Range 0-50).
Severity_Category	Interpretation (None <20, Mild 20-24, Moderate 25-29, Severe >=30).

References

Bech P, Rasmussen NA, Olsen LR, Noerholm V, Abildgaard W. The sensitivity and specificity of the Major Depression Inventory, using the Present State Examination as the index of validity. J Affect Disord. 2001;66(2-3):159-164. doi:10.1016/s0165-0327(00)00309-8

Examples

# Example 1: Severe Depression
# All items scored 4 or 5
major_depression_index(5, 5, 4, 4, 5, 2, 4, 5, 0, 4, 0, 5)

# Example 2: Mild Depression
# Scores around 2 or 3
major_depression_index(2, 3, 2, 2, 1, 0, 2, 2, 0, 3, 3, 0)

cliot documentation built on Dec. 1, 2025, 1:06 a.m.