Depression is an incredibly difficult and complex form of mental disorder affecting millions worldwide. Unfortunately, it can be extremely hard to diagnose and understand the myriad of conditions, all called Major Depressive Disorders, that can cause immense suffering in the afflicted individuals and those around them.
TMS Los Angeles has put together this comprehensive guide to understanding the various forms of Major Depressive Disorders.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll closely examine what exactly Major Depressive Disorders are, how they manifest over time, and most importantly, how sufferers can access treatment if needed.
By the end, you should fully understand what constitutes Major Depressive Disorder as well as some strategies for tackling depression successfully when seeking medical help from a mental health professional if necessary.
What is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major Depressive Disorder, also known as major depression, is a mental disorder that affects a person’s mood and cognitive and physical functions. It has depressive symptoms and Severe depression. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and worthlessness along with other symptoms such as loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, changes in weight or appetite, sleep disturbances, and thoughts of suicide.
Major depressive disorder Diagnostic and Statistical Manual shows it can disrupt everyday activities and affect work performance, relationships with family and friends, and overall physical well-being.
Although major depressive episode and severe major depression can have major impacts on life, the condition is highly treatable through therapy or medication when properly diagnosed by a health practitioner.
When treated correctly, the major depressive disorder can go into remission, allowing people to live their daily lives with improved quality of life.
What are the Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?
- Feeling sad or down most of the time
- Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
- Significant weight loss or gain
- Sleeping too much or not being able to sleep
- Feeling tired all the time
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
How is MDD diagnosed and treated?
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mental disorder characterized by a persistent and severe low mood. Treatment-Resistant Depression Symptoms include:
- A combination of Depression Symptoms, including a depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, diagnoses MDD.
- MDD can be treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
- Antidepressant medications are the most common treatment for MDD. These medications can help improve mood and relieve other disorder symptoms.
- Psychotherapy is another effective treatment for MDD. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is particularly effective in treating depression.
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is another treatment option for MDD that can be effective when other treatments have failed.
- Hospitalization may be necessary in some cases of MDD, particularly if the person is at risk of harming themselves or others.
- Treatment for MDD often takes time and patience, but most people with the disorder can eventually find relief from their symptoms.
What are some of the possible causes of MDD?
Genetic disposition
A genetic disposition can cause major depressive disorder. This means that you are more likely to suffer if you have a family member who suffers from MDD. Studies have shown that people with first-degree relatives suffering from MDD are three to four times more likely to suffer from the disorder themselves.
Brain chemistry
An imbalance in brain chemicals can also lead to MDD. The brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine play a role in mood regulation. When these chemicals are out of balance, it can lead to feelings of depression. Clinical Depression can also be caused by the following:
• Traumatic life events
• Substance abuse
• Stressful situations
Hormones
Hormonal imbalances can also cause MDD. This is often seen in women who suffer from postpartum depression or premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Changes in hormone levels can also trigger MDD in men and women during puberty, perimenopause, and menopause.
Environmental factors
Certain environmental factors can also lead to MDD. These include exposure to traumatic events, such as abuse or the death of a loved one. Additionally, people living in poverty or with a history of violence or conflict are at an increased risk of developing MDD.
Health problems
Certain health problems can also be a cause of MDD. These include chronic pain, cancer, heart disease, and thyroid problems. People who suffer from chronic illnesses are often at an increased risk of developing depression due to the stress of their illness.
Medications
Certain medications can also cause MDD as a side effect. These include blood pressure medications, birth control pills, steroids, and sleeping pills. If you are taking any medication and begin to experience symptoms of depression, it is important to speak with your doctor about the possibility that the medication is causing your symptoms
How can family and friends support someone who is living with MDD?
Family and friends can be great support systems for someone with Persistent depressive disorder. Here are some ways to offer your support:
- Listen without judgment and offer emotional and practical support.
- Encourage the person to talk about their feelings and validate their experiences.
- Educate yourself on mental health disorders to better understand what the person is going through.
- Offer to accompany them to therapy and doctor’s appointments.
- Help them create a plan focusing on self-care and healthy lifestyle changes.
- Remind them that recovery from MDD is possible and encourage them to stay positive.
- Encourage social contact with friends, family, and support groups.
- Offer to help them with daily tasks if needed.
- Let them know you are always there for them if they need someone to talk to.
Living with MDD can be difficult, but having the support of family and friends can make it easier to manage symptoms and overcome the disorder. You can make a significant difference in someone’s life by offering your love and support.
Conclusion
Major depressive disorder is a serious mental illness with many Mood Disorders that can cause extreme changes in mood and affect daily functioning.
While there is no known cure, the available treatments are very effective in helping manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Understanding the potential causes and risk factors for MDD can help people recognize it in themselves or their loved ones earlier. With the right support, someone with Bipolar Disorder and MDD can successfully manage their symptoms and lead a life of hope and joy.