For someone who is unfamiliar with the different types of depression, it can be hard to understand let alone identify it. Of all the kinds of depression, Major Depressive Disorder is one of the most common and one I work with frequently. You may be asking, what does Major Depressive Disorder typically look like? Well, let’s explore this.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) means that depressive symptoms have continued for at least two weeks — and generally much longer— negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. A person may also experience loss of interest in hobbies and activities (anhedonia), decreased energy, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, inappropriate feelings of guilt or worthlessness, a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, and in its most serious manifestation, thoughts of suicide and self-harm. Individuals can also experience increased social isolation as feelings of loneliness are also common and can result in withdrawing from family and friends. The two most common symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder I have seen and worked with are sleepiness and appetite loss.
Among mental health professionals and researchers, major depression or major depressive disorder is the most common form of depression. Unipolar depression and clinical depression are also terms used to describe depression. Depression can be classified into three levels: mild, moderate, and severe.
What causes depression?
Although the exact cause of depression is not known, there are a number of factors that may play a role in its development. The cause of depression is generally not a single event, but rather a combination of biological, psychological, social, and lifestyle factors.
Factors that may contribute to depression include:
- Family History- Depression can run in families, and some people are more genetically susceptible to depression. It does not automatically mean someone will suffer from depression if their parent or close relative has recently been depressed.
- Personality- Certain personality traits can put one at higher risk, including worrying a lot, having low self-esteem, being perfectionists, reacting negatively to personal criticism, and being negative and critical of themselves.
- Medical conditions- Depression can be triggered by two types of serious medical conditions. Stress and worry associated with a serious condition can cause depression directly or indirectly, especially if long-term management is involved.
- Drug and alcohol use- The abuse of alcohol and drugs can both contribute to depression and result in it. Alcohol and drug problems are also common among depression sufferers.
Changes in the brain
Depression can lead to long-term changes in brain structure and function. It often results in decreased connectivity between brain regions, affecting memory, decision-making, and emotional regulation. The hippocampus, an important area for forming new memories, may also shrink as a result of chronic depression. Several studies have shown that untreated depression has a direct impact on hippocampal size. There are a number of evidence-based, effective treatments available. In many cases, psychotherapy and medication are most effective when combined. A variety of therapeutic approaches have been found to be effective, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. In terms of medications, there are several antidepressants that can be prescribed. Each individual must determine what works best for them.
Depression is complicated. It is not your fault, and there is hope for you to feel better - but you must be willing to take action. In spite of the fact that there is no 'one-size-fits-all' treatment for depression, most people will see improvements in their symptoms with persistence and patience. A person suffering from depression can suffer for months or even years if left untreated. It's important to seek help, because the faster you receive treatment, the quicker you recover, and the closer you are to living a life you deserve and feel fulfilled by.
