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According to the National Institute of Mental Health,
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is
A common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act.
It is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest in activities and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. If you or someone you know is suffering from MDD, it’s important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments available. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about depression, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Depression is a mental disorder characterized by persistent low mood and loss of interest. It can cause a range of emotional and physical symptoms.
Depression is more than just feeling sad or down for a few days. It’s a serious mental health condition that has an impact on both your physical and mental health.
Symptoms of depression include:
- Persistent low mood or sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Reduced energy levels and fatigue
- Poor concentration and memory
- Changes in appetite or weight (usually loss of appetite and weight loss, but increased appetite and weight gain can also occur)
- Sleep problems (insomnia or hypersomnia)
- Agitation, restlessness, or being slowed down physically
- Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Depression can make it difficult to function at work, home, or school and can lead to relationship difficulties. It can also have a negative impact on your physical health. People with depression may have increased rates of heart disease, stroke, and other medical conditions.
Types of depression
There are different types of depression that can be experienced. Major depressive disorder is the most common type of depression. However, there are other types of depression that can be experienced as well. These include:
- Persistent depressive disorder: This form of depression is characterized by a low mood that lasts for at least two years.
- Bipolar disorder: This form of depression is characterized by extreme highs and lows in mood.
- Seasonal affective disorder: This form of depression is characterized by a change in mood due to the change in seasons.
- Psychotic depression: This form of depression is characterized by delusions or hallucinations.
1. Major depressive disorder
Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is a serious medical condition that can negatively impact a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physical health. It is estimated that 16.1 million adults in the United States suffer from a major depressive disorder in a given year. Depression is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. for people ages 15-44.
Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include changes in mood, appetite, energy level, concentration, self-esteem, sleep, and libido. Major depressive disorder is characterized by having at least five of these symptoms for two weeks or more without any reprieve.
While the exact cause of the major depressive disorder is unknown, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Major life events such as the death of a loved one or losing a job can trigger a depressive episode in someone who is predisposed to the condition.
If you think you may be suffering from depression, it’s important to seek professional help. Depression is treatable and there are many effective treatment options available. Treatment for depression typically includes medication and/or psychotherapy.
2. Persistent depressive disorder
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD), also known as dysthymia, is a long-term form of clinical depression. PDD is characterized by a depressed mood that lasts for at least two years. Although the symptoms of PDD are not as severe as those of major depression, they can still interfere with daily functioning and cause significant distress.
PDD often begins in adolescence or young adulthood, and women are more likely to experience PDD than men. Symptoms of PDD may include depressed mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, appetite or weight changes, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. People with PDD may also have low self-esteem and feelings of hopelessness.
Treatment for PDD typically includes antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. In some cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended. With treatment, most people with PDD are able to improve their symptoms and live relatively normal lives.
3. Postpartum depression
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that can happen after you give birth. If you have PPD, you may feel sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed. PPD can make it hard for you to take care of your baby and feel connected to her. You might have trouble sleeping, lose interest in activities you used to enjoy, or not be able to eat.
PPD is different from the “baby blues,” which are common and usually go away within a couple of weeks after delivery. PPD lasts longer and is more severe. It can start anytime during the first year after your baby is born.
If you think you might have PPD, tell your doctor or other healthcare providers so they can help you get better.
General signs and symptoms
Depression is a serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. Fortunately, it is also highly treatable. People with depression can get better and may experience remission (no or very few symptoms).
Signs and symptoms of depression include:
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, including sex
Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down"
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
Appetite and/or weight changes — either increased or decreased appetite and weight loss or gain
Agitation, irritability, or restlessness
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, Or a specific plan for committing suicide
Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain
Symptoms usually last at least two weeks.
Depression causes
Depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
Depression often runs in families, but it can also be triggered by traumatic events, drug abuse, or a major life change.
Biological factors that may contribute to depression include changes in brain chemistry, hormones, and certain medical conditions.
Environmental factors may include stress from work or home life, financial problems, or a history of trauma or abuse.
Psychological factors may include negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness.
Risk factors
Risk factors for depression (major depressive disorder) include:
- Having a family history of depression or other mental health disorders
- Experiencing traumatic or stressful life events (such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss)
- Having certain medical conditions (such as cancer, heart disease, or thyroid problems)
- Taking certain medications (such as some antidepressants, beta-blockers, and sleeping pills)
- Abusing alcohol or drugs
Treatment for depression
If you’re experiencing depression, know that you’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from depression every day, and there are many effective treatments available.
The most important thing is to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. They can help you understand your options and make a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Treatment for depression often includes medication, therapy, or both. Medication can be very effective in treating the symptoms of depression. However, it’s important to work with a mental health professional to find the right medication and dosage for you.
Therapy is another effective treatment for depression. It can help you understand your thoughts and feelings, develop healthy coping skills, and set realistic goals. There are many different types of therapy, so it’s important to find a therapist who specializes in treating depression and who you feel comfortable with.
In some cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended. ECT is a medical procedure that involves passing electrical currents through the brain to trigger a brief seizure. It’s generally considered when other treatments haven’t been effective.
No matter what treatment plan is right for you, it’s important to be patient and stick with it. Recovery from depression takes time, but it is possible
1. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressant medications that work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, appetite, and sleep.
SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant medication and are used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. They are generally well-tolerated with few side effects.
Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction. Some people may also experience more severe side effects such as changes in mood or behavior, anxiety, mania, or thoughts of suicide. If you experience any of these side effects, it's important to contact your doctor right away.
SSRIs are usually taken once or twice daily with or without food. It may take several weeks for the full effect of the medication to be felt. It's important to stick with the treatment plan even if you don't feel better right away. Do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor as this can cause withdrawal symptoms or make your condition worse.
2. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are a class of antidepressant medications that are used to treat the major depressive disorder. SNRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which are two neurotransmitters that are thought to be involved in depression.
SNRIs are generally considered to be equally effective as SSRIs in treating major depression, but they may have slightly different side effects. The most common side effects of SNRIs include nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, increased sweating, and sexual side effects.
While SNRIs are generally safe and effective medications for treating depression, they can cause serious side effects in some people. If you experience any serious side effects while taking an SNRI, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.
