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Introduction – Major Depressive Disorder: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Life is not a constant, so everyone experiences the ebb and flow of daily life. A person might feel refreshed on a sunny day or blue on a cloudy day. Or maybe they feel happy about a conversation one day but sad about what another individual said the following day. None of this is uncommon. But what about individuals who experience chronic sadness, struggle to get up, or no longer feel pleasure in life? This situation is altogether different.
If you find yourself experiencing more moderate or severe symptoms of sadness, you may suffer from a clinical condition called major depressive disorder. Still, it is entirely treatable, and you will be more prepared to take action by learning the causes, symptoms, and treatment.
What is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder consisting of persistent low moods, loss of pleasure, and low self-esteem. Also called clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.
More severe effects of MDD can lead to self-harm or death and requires immediate treatment.
Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder isn’t something that eventually “passes.” Therefore, to be diagnosed with MDD, symptoms must last two weeks or longer. Without prompt treatment, symptoms can worsen.
- Lack of energy
- Low or depressed mood
- Experiencing a “flat” or “empty” mood
- Poor concentration
- Inability to experience pleasure (anhedonia)
- Moving or speaking more slowly
- Sleep disturbances (too little or too much sleep)
- Appetite changes (increased or decreased appetite)
- Restlessness or irritability
- Feelings of guilt, loneliness, and worthlessness
- Increased agitation, frustration, or angry outbursts
- Suicidal ideations, self-harm, or suicide attempts
Causes of Major Depressive Disorder
Clinical depression can manifest for several reasons. And though some individuals may be more susceptible due to psychological or environmental circumstances, anyone can suffer from this mood disorder.
Factors may include:
Genetics: Family genetics play a significant role in inheriting particular traits. Therefore, an individual is more susceptible to experiencing clinical depression if a family member has experienced it.
Gender: Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with clinical depression, whether due to hormones, a greater willingness to share, or they respond to stress differently than men.
Biochemical: Chemical changes in the brain are correlated with depression and differ in each individual. Therefore, some are more prone to mood changes than others.
Environment: An individual who grows up in an unhealthy environment or experiences trauma is more likely to suffer from clinical depression.
Stress: Everyone experiences stress. Still, those who struggle with chronic stress are more at risk of clinical depression.
Physical issues: Individuals with daily physical problems are more prone to clinical depression due to their limitations.
Medical issues: Some medical problems may either mimic or provoke clinical depression—for instance, individuals with diabetes, heart disease, or thyroid issues.
Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder is not the typical bad day, nor will it dissipate within a few days. Therefore, it is crucial to seek treatment immediately to prevent any chances of further harm.
Treatment for clinical depression entails therapy from a mental health professional and the possibility of medication through a prescriber.
Medication
Not everyone who suffers from clinical depression may need to take medication. Still, many individuals struggling with moderate or severe depression find it helpful.
Medication helps alter the chemicals causing your symptoms, and you may take them for a prolonged time or a short while. That is something you and your prescriber can discuss together.
You may also experience side effects from the medications, such as sleepiness, headaches, or other symptoms, so talk with your prescriber if they become too uncomfortable.
It is essential to note that the full effects of medication may take weeks to months, so please keep that in mind.
Therapy
A therapist will treat clients according to their unique situations or circumstances and may use one or several forms of therapy for clinical depression.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a method to help individuals struggling with unhealthy thought patterns. For instance, if you think your life will never improve, a therapist will work with you on increasing positive thoughts and behaviors.
Family or couple’s therapy: When a loved one is not doing well, it affects the entire household. Therefore, involving the family or couple in the therapeutic process will ensure everyone is on the same page and receive the needed support.
Group therapy: Therapy in a group setting can be very beneficial when you have the support of others who share similarities and can empathize. It helps to know you are not alone.
Things You Can Do At Home
You have limited time in treatment and lots of time outside of it, so practicing the skills you’ve learned in therapy at home is crucial.
Practice self-care: Self-Care is essential, especially when one is clinically depressed. However, because it takes a lot of energy to do anything when you’re feeling emotionally unwell, start with something simple to make you feel good about yourself. That can include anything from savoring a piece of dark chocolate to brushing your scalp. Then see if you can build upon those skills over time.
Be consistent: Not following a routine tends to fall by the wayside and adversely affects one’s mental health. So, try slowly shifting your bedtime schedule, get out of bed when you wake up – even if you go straight to the couch, take your medication on time, and eat regularly (small snacks if that’s all you can do).
Share your thoughts or feelings: Suffering from clinical depression can leave one feeling alone. Therefore, find a trusted friend, family member, or mentor willing to listen without trying to fix the situation, as that won’t help you build upon your skills.
Major Depressive Disorder is Treatable
Clinical depression may require treatment. Still, it is treatable and not a life sentence. So, don’t wait until your symptoms have encompassed your entire being. The sooner you seek help, the more quickly you can be free of symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life.
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Engin Akyur (Pexels)
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