What Is Major Depressive Disorder?
Depression is a mood disorder marked by low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, and several other mental and physical symptoms. There are multiple depressive disorders listed in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common of these mental health conditions—and one of the most severe. Getting help for MDD can increase the chances of recovering and living a productive life. Knowing the symptoms of MDD can be an excellent place to start.
Read on to learn more about this depressive disorder and possible supportive solutions that can help.
Common symptoms of major depressive disorder
Major depressive disorder (MDD), also called major depression, is considered by many to be a mental health condition that can manifest at least five of the major symptoms of depression for at least two weeks. MDD is considered by experts to be both a classification of depressive disorders and a specific condition.
Major depressive disorder is formally described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which outlines the criteria for diagnosing recognized mental health conditions.
Like other forms of depression, major depressive disorder is thought to be caused by a combination of factors. Experts believe that genetics play a role in the development of major depression, along with environmental influences, such as stress, medical conditions, and major life changes. Abnormalities in the structure and function of the brain have also been identified in people with MDD.
The DSM also contains several other depression-related disorders with various causes, symptoms and treatments. These include seasonal affective disorder, postpartum depression, and persistent depressive disorder. These other mental health conditions have common symptoms and a few differences.
First, we’ll consider the common major depressive disorder symptoms, then compare them to other mental health conditions for further validation and understanding for those who live with the conditions.
It’s also important to note that few people might experience symptoms of depression for the entire time they have depression. Symptoms of major depression can take the form of depressive episodes, which can last for days, weeks, months or even years—possibly punctuated by periods with few or minimal symptoms.
Low mood or low energy
One of the best-known and most recognizable symptoms of depression to many can be the inability to do things as one usually might. This symptom can be split into low mood and low energy depending on someone’s individual experience with it.
Low mood, in this context, can include feelings of sadness or hopelessness and a general lack of interest in one’s passions and experiences. As a result, people who live with depression may not see the point in meeting obligations like going to work. They may also lose interest in things they used to enjoy, like socializing and hobbies.
Conversely, some people experiencing depression may want to do things (or understand the importance of doing things)—but they may not have the physical energy to do them. The reasons can be individual, ranging from a lack of physical energy that can be associated with depression, and depression-related physical aches and pains that can make it difficult for many to accomplish tasks.
Physical symptoms
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, people with depression might experience physical symptoms that include changes in motor function, fatigue, and sleep disruptions. Additional physical symptoms can include headaches, unexplained pain, low energy, gastrointestinal distress, and muscle soreness. Depressive symptoms can also include weight loss or weight gain that might not be explained by other factors.
Sometimes we can associate depression with people staying in bed all day, but this is not necessarily the case. While some people with depression might sleep more than usual, others might have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep—which may contribute to feelings of low energy. A disrupted sleep cycle can be particularly common in children and adolescents who live with depression, but it can happen to anyone.
Thoughts of suicide and death
Thoughts of suicide are generally regarded as another well-known symptom of depression, though they may not always be present. Per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, this symptom involves recurring “thoughts of death (not just fear of dying)”, suicidal thoughts, or suicide attempts.
Treatment for major depressive disorder
Treatments for major depressive disorder can include medication, talk therapy, changes in diet and lifestyle or a combination of these approaches. When depressive symptoms are treatment resistant, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be utilized. Working with a mental health professional, you can find a treatment plan that will work for you based on personal preferences, insurance coverage, scheduling considerations and other factors. People using a combination of therapies might often see the best outcomes in the shortest time.
Psychotherapy
Therapy can provide you with emotional support, help you identify the sources of your symptoms, and address potential comorbid mental health challenges. There are several forms of therapy a mental health professional may use to treat major depression, including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
Medication
Several medications may be prescribed to treat symptoms associated with a depressed mood. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). Always consult with a healthcare provider prior to starting or stopping any medication. A licensed professional can explain the side effects, efficacy, and treatment duration of a specific medication.
Electroconvulsive therapy
A form of brain stimulation therapy, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is typically used to address symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. Brain stimulation therapies work by activating certain brain regions through electrical currents. Studies show that electroconvulsive therapy is an effective treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
Persistent depressive disorder
Persistent depressive disorder is a long-term form of depression with symptoms that are similar to major depressive disorder. Still, it can involve fewer symptoms with longer gaps in between, with no gap generally lasting for two months or more. Additionally, clinicians often require that the condition be experienced for at least two years prior to diagnosis.
Sometimes, persistent depressive disorder can follow major depressive disorder as the individual improves through treatment.
A persistent depressive disorder can be treated using the same treatments or combinations of treatments as MDD.
Medical conditions and depression
Some people can experience depression due to medical conditions, such as a hormonal disorder. For example, abnormal levels of thyroid hormone have been scientifically suggested to be associated with an increased risk of depression. Depression has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain.
In these cases, the treatment of depression might depend on addressing the underlying medical condition. The condition, or medication taken for it, may prevent the safe use of drugs for depression.
However, treatment options like talk therapy, lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a healthy diet can bridge the gap toward a successful outcome.
Other mental health conditions and depression
Just as mental disorders can be caused or aggravated by physical conditions, major depressive episodes can be caused by more complex mental illnesses that include other symptoms. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and bipolar disorder are two of the most common examples of these conditions listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
What is seasonal affective disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder can occur when a lack of sunlight prevents the body from making enough of a vital messenger molecule. This lack of sunlight can then lead to depressive disorders or increased depressive episodes during the winter months. In some people, it can also lead to manic episodes in the spring when sunlight is prevalent again, and their bodies must adjust.
Seasonal affective disorder can be treated through exposure to artificial light that replicates sunlight.
What is bipolar disorder?
Once called manic depression by many, bipolar disorder is generally regarded as a mental condition that can lead to alternating cycles of depressive episodes and high-energy manic episodes. It can also include anxiety disorder-related symptoms, a general lack of focus and impulsive behavior.
Bipolar disorders can generally be treated with specific medications.
Finding help for depression
Many people can find relief from symptoms of depression by engaging in simple daily practices. We’ve listed several scientifically supported strategies below.
Keep a journal
Keeping a journal can help you to establish a timeline for your symptoms, possibly offering you a complete list of your symptoms and possible environmental links. These notes can help you narrow down or eliminate other potential mental or physical disorders as you work toward a potential diagnosis.
Maintain social connections
Maintaining social relationships can be vital for those who live with depressive disorders for several reasons. For one thing, it can make depressive disorders less likely to occur. It also can help if others can alert you when you may be approaching a depressive episode, acting as a support system in your self-reflection.
Maintain a relationship with your care provider
Maintaining a relationship with your care provider can be crucial as one learns to live with the condition. Having a medical professional who knows you is generally necessary to get an accurate diagnosis and find the best treatment. Additionally, having a doctor available for support can be essential if you are taking medication that may cause, alleviate or aggravate depressive disorders.
Talk therapy for depression: how can it help?
The best treatment for depressive disorder can depend on the person. What works best for one person may not always be suitable for another. However, many people experiencing symptoms of depression might benefit from talk therapy with the right counselor. A diagnosis is not generally required for online talk therapy.
Online therapy puts you in touch with a licensed and experienced therapist who can help you navigate the best treatment options from the comfort of your own home—removing many possible barriers to treatment for those who experience depression.
Is online therapy effective?
Multiple studies confirm that online therapy benefits participants and is a cost-effective method for the treatment of depression.
The linked article published by the British Journal of Psychiatry noted that online therapy offers a comparable experience to in-person therapy at a more affordable rate for many—explicitly exploring the implications of online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Takeaway
There are multiple types of depressive disorders, and it can be confusing and overwhelming to determine which one someone might be experiencing—especially for someone living with depression symptoms. The first step for many to find help begins with a scheduled consult—empowering a patient to talk to a doctor to investigate other health issues that might contribute to symptoms. A physician can then diagnose depression conditions or refer you to a specialist for a full assessment. Successful treatment options for depression can include medications, lifestyle changes and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). also called talk therapy. For more information about how a telehealth talk therapy solution could be right for you or someone you care about, you might consider connecting with the experts at BetterHelp.What is a major depressive disorder?
Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder characterized by sadness, fatigue, lack of energy, and loss of interest. As with other forms of depression, risk factors for MDD are thought to include a family history of depression, environmental influences, alterations in brain structure and function, and comorbid mental health conditions. Additionally, the existence of certain types of physical illness, such as thyroid disorders, have been shown to increase the risk of an individual experiencing MDD.
Is MDD the same as depression?
The term “depression” often refers to a mental health condition called major depressive disorder. It can also be used to describe disorders like postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, or persistent depressive disorder.
Is MDD considered a serious mental illness?
Also called clinical depression, major depressive disorder is a serious mental illness that can have significant impacts on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. According to the WHO, depression is “a leading cause of disability around the world” that “contributes greatly to the global burden of disease”.
Is MDD a type of bipolar?
Major depressive disorder is not a type of bipolar disorder, though it is related to the condition. Both major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder each are characterized by symptoms of depression. Bipolar disorder, however, is typically marked by episodes of mania—periods marked by elevated, as opposed to low, mood—as well.
Is MDD part of bipolar?
Major depressive disorder is a mental health condition distinct from bipolar disorder. Unlike bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder is not typically characterized by periods of mania. For this reason, MDD is often referred to as “unipolar depression”.
Can MDD be cured?
There is presently no cure for major depressive disorder, though there are various forms of treatment that can help individuals manage depressive symptoms. As with other types of depression, major depressive disorder is often treated with medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Psychotherapy can help individuals with depression address the emotional challenges of the condition, identify the sources of their feelings, and work through comorbid mental health concerns (e.g., panic disorder). Types of medication for depression include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). For those who do not respond to initial treatment methods, brain stimulation therapies—such as electroconvulsive therapy—may be used.
What happens to people with MDD?
People with major depressive disorder may experience a variety of impacts in their lives. According to the American Psychiatric Association, major depressive disorder “negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act”. However, many people with MDD who seek treatment see positive results.
How long can MDD last?
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, to be diagnosed with a major depressive episode, an individual typically must have experienced symptoms for at least two weeks. The duration of major depressive disorder can vary, though. The condition may last for months or years, depending on the individual, their symptoms, and other factors. Often, treatment can prevent depression from persisting and continuing to produce negative effects.
- Previous Article
- Next Article