Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a severe mental illness that often goes undiagnosed, or otherwise untreated.
No one knows what causes Major Depressive Disorder – it could be a mix of genetics, environmental stressors, or trauma – but we do know that it can range from mild to severe.
In this article, we’ll look at the causes and symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder and discuss the treatment options available.
What is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is when you feel intense melancholy, despair, and worthlessness. It may affect a variety of facets of life, including relationships, employment, education, and self-esteem.
Symptoms can include changes in appetite or weight, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, fatigue or lack of energy, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, feelings of guilt, and thoughts of suicide or death.
While the precise origin of MDD is unknown, in some circumstances, MDD can be hereditary. However, this is not always the case as there is also a strong correlation between MDD and psychological trauma.
MDD is a widespread mental health issue that impacted over 21 million Americans in 2020 alone.
It can affect people of any age, gender, race, or economic background. This mental illness can cause constant despair, hopelessness, and inferiority. These symptoms persist for a minimum of two weeks and can interfere with daily activities.
MDD treatment often involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies to assist patients in controlling their symptoms.
What Causes MDD?
The causes of Major Depressive Disorder are unknown; however, there are several contributing factors, such as:
- Changes in brain chemistry
- Genetic predisposition (other family members diagnosed)
- Psychological trauma
- Stressful life events
- Physical illness
- Substance abuse
- Lack of exercise
- Unhealthy diet
It is essential for anyone who thinks they may be suffering from MDD to seek help from a healthcare professional so that an appropriate treatment plan can be developed.
Environmental Factors
Stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one or job loss, can trigger depressive symptoms in those with a genetic predisposition to the disorder.
Other environmental factors, such as living in poverty or experiencing trauma or abuse, can also contribute to the development of MDD.
Research suggests that having a solid support system and developing healthy coping strategies can help reduce the severity of depressive symptoms and improve quality of life.
Additionally, psychotherapy and medications may be used to manage depression to minimize its long-term effects on an individual’s mental health and overall well-being.
MDD Symptoms
An ongoing lack of enthusiasm for activities and a depressed mood characterizes major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
Symptoms of MDD may include :
- Worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Social withdrawal can range from mild to severe
- Headaches
- Digestive issues
- Musculoskeletal pain
If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it is recommended to seek professional help to determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
To be diagnosed with MDD, an individual must meet specific criteria defined by the DSM-5, a psychological and brain health reference book.
According to this manual, a person must have experienced five or more of the following symptoms mentioned above during the same two-week period to qualify for a diagnosis of MDD.
If at least five of these symptoms are present for two weeks or longer and cause significant distress and impairment in functioning, an individual may be diagnosed with MDD.
Alternatives for Treating Major Depressive Disorder
After a diagnosis is determined, looking into the best available treatments is critical.
Common treatments for MDD include psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and antidepressant medication management.
CBT aims to uncover harmful mental patterns and actions that contribute to depressive symptoms while also encouraging positive coping strategies.
Medication management typically consists of prescribing one or more antidepressants which can help improve mood regulation by altering levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Other treatment options may include cutting-edge therapies such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Therapy, and Spravato®.
It is essential to discuss all available treatment options with a mental health professional before deciding on a plan that is right for you.
Overcoming MDD
Major Depressive Disorder is a severe mental health condition that may significantly impact the lives of those diagnosed. Learning about this disorder’s causes, symptoms, and treatments can help us better understand it and seek effective treatment.
People with MDD may have more prosperous and meaningful lives with the proper diagnosis and treatment.
The path to recovery may, at times, be challenging, but keep in mind that you are not alone; millions of people worldwide also struggle with MDD.
NeuroSpa is a sophisticated therapy facility focusing on individualized mental health treatment programs.
Being a leader in depression therapy and a supplier of mental healthcare, they take satisfaction in delivering various services and advantages, either in-person or through telemedicine.
Check out NeuroSpa and schedule your first appointment today.
This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.
