What Is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major depressive disorder, also often referred to as depression, is a mental health condition caused by changes in the brain chemistry that affect the transmission of the chemicals and neurotransmitters used in emotional responses. It is characterized by feelings of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and apathy. There are a variety of factors that can influence a person’s likelihood of developing depression such as difficult circumstances, genetics, stress, changes in hormone levels, medical conditions, and grief. Many individuals can struggle with undiagnosed major depressive disorder for years, however, with effective care, many patients are able to achieve good mental and physical health and wellbeing.
What Are the Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder?
When a patient has depression, his or her emotions, thought patterns, and behavior are all affected. Symptoms include but are not limited to:
How Is Depression Treated?
A combination of treatments such as lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and medication management may be recommended. Patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, where they learn to recognize destructive thought patterns and adjust their behaviors to healthier choices. Patients may also be prescribed antidepressants depending on the needs of the individual patient.
Major depressive disorder, also often referred to as depression, is a mental health condition caused by changes in the brain chemistry that affect the transmission of the chemicals and neurotransmitters used in emotional responses. It is characterized by feelings of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and apathy. There are a variety of factors that can influence a person’s likelihood of developing depression such as difficult circumstances, genetics, stress, changes in hormone levels, medical conditions, and grief. Many individuals can struggle with undiagnosed major depressive disorder for years, however, with effective care, many patients are able to achieve good mental and physical health and wellbeing.
What Are the Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder?
When a patient has depression, his or her emotions, thought patterns, and behavior are all affected. Symptoms include but are not limited to:
- Angry Outbursts
- Trouble making decisions
- Memory and concentration issues
- Sadness and hopelessness
- Weight gain or loss
- Changes in sleep habits
- Tiredness or lack of energy
- No appetite
- Sexual problems
- Substance abuse
- Thoughts of or attempts to harm self
How Is Depression Treated?
A combination of treatments such as lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and medication management may be recommended. Patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, where they learn to recognize destructive thought patterns and adjust their behaviors to healthier choices. Patients may also be prescribed antidepressants depending on the needs of the individual patient.