Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, is a serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. It is characterized by persistent sadness or irritability, loss of interest in activities, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. MDD can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble functioning at work or school and sometimes feel as though life isn’t worth living. MDD is not a weakness or character flaw—it is a real medical condition that requires treatment.
While there are many different types of depression, MDD is the most common form. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 16 million American adults had at least one major depressive episode in 2015. MDD typically develops between the ages of 18 and 25, but it can happen at any age. Women are more likely than men to experience depression.
There are several possible causes of MDD, including genetics, biology (a change in brain chemistry or structure), psychological factors (stressful life events or chronic stress), and medications. Some people may be more vulnerable to developing MDD due to their genes or family history. People with certain medical conditions (such as cancer or heart disease) or who abuse alcohol or drugs are also at increased risk.
Most people with MDD need treatment to get better. A combination of medication and psychotherapy is often the most effective approach. Medications used to treat depression include antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Psychotherapy options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps people identify and change negative thinking patterns, interpersonal therapy (IPT), which focuses on social relationships, and problem-solving therapy (PST), which teaches practical skills for dealing with stressful life situations. In some cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended., , , , .
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a serious medical illness that negatively impacts how patients feel emotionally and physically, think about themselves and others ,and behave each day . The main characteristic symptoms include persistent depressed mood OR loss of pleasure/interest in activities , sleep disturbance , changes in appetite/weight , fatigue , feelings of worthlessness/guilt OR decreased concentration . These symptoms must be present for > 2 weeks & cause clinically significant distress/impairment in functioning . While there are various types & subtypes of depressions disorders based on specific symptom constellation s& course patterns “major depressive disorder” remains the most common form diagnosed . According To NIMH an estimated 16 million American adults had at least one major depressive episode during 2015 . The median age range for initial onset appears to be between 24-44 years old although children & adolescents can develop major depressive disorder & rates appear slightly higher for females across all age ranges studied There remain numerous debates within scientific & medical communities about potential etiological factors for development Of MD D– including psychological theories related To early childhood experiences Or exposure TO traumatic events /stressful life circumstances vs biologic explanations involving genetic vulnerability And neurotransmitter abnormalities Within key regions OF THE brain . More recent studies however suggest That while individual risk factor profiles May help shed light ON WHY some people develop MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER while others do not – it Is unlikely That any ONE factor Is solely responsible For causing THE full array OF signs & symptoms classically associated With this complex mental illness Instead It seems THAT multiple interacting biological And environmental contributors Working together increase an individual ‘s over all risk 4 developing MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER At some point during their lifetime While much more research IS needed In order TO fully understand All OF THE contributing pieces TO THIS puzzle we DO know THAT current treatments Are Effective In helping PEOPLE manage THEIR symptoms And improve Their quality OF LIFE