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Differences between the 3Ds

Feature
Depression
Dementia
Delirium
Onset
Recent change in mood, persisting for at least two weeks – may coincide with life changesGradual onsetSudden
Duration
Can last for months or yearsDecline is progressive over timeHours to less than one month, but can be longer
Thinking
IntactDifficulty with word-finding, holding conversationsAny sudden change compared to baseline, confusion, disorganized thinking