Understanding Major Depression Disorder: A Guide

Major Depression Disorder (MDD), often referred to simply as depression, is a serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think and handle daily activities.
It’s more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch. MDD can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and home.
What is Major Depression Disorder?
Major Depression Disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a lack of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities. This condition can affect a person’s thoughts, behavior, feelings and sense of well-being. It is important to recognize that depression is not a sign of weakness or something that can be simply “snapped out of.” It is a legitimate medical condition that requires understanding and treatment.
Major Depression Disorder Symptoms
People with MDD often experience a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including:
Emotional symptoms
- Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Irritability
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Physical symptoms
- Fatigue or decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning awakening or oversleeping
- Appetite and/or weight changes
- Physical aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems without a clear physical cause
Major Depressive Disorder Criteria
For a diagnosis of MDD, a person must meet the criteria as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). According to the DSM-5, five or more of the following symptoms must be present during the same two-week period and represent a change from previous functioning and at least one of the symptoms is either (1) depressed mood or (2) loss of interest or pleasure:
- Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day
- Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities most of the day
- Significant weight loss when not dieting, weight gain or decrease or increase in appetite nearly every day
- Insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation nearly every day
- Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt nearly every day
- Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness, nearly every day
- Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation without a specific plan, or a suicide attempt or a specific plan for committing suicide
- The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning.
- The episode is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition.
Major Depressive Disorder Treatment
Treating Major Depressive Disorder often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Major Depressive Disorder medication
Medications can be very effective in treating MDD. The most common types of antidepressants include:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These are often the first line of treatment due to their relatively mild side effects. Examples include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft) and escitalopram (Lexapro).
- Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): These medications help increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. Examples include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): These are often used when SSRIs or SNRIs are not effective. Examples include amitriptyline and nortriptyline.
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): These are rarely used due to their severe side effects and dietary restrictions. Examples include phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate).
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is another effective treatment for MDD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most researched and widely practiced forms of psychotherapy for depression. CBT helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their depression.
Lifestyle changes
In addition to professional treatment, lifestyle changes can also help manage MDD. These include:
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help reduce symptoms of depression.
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet can improve overall well-being.
- Adequate Sleep: Establishing a regular sleep schedule can help improve mood and energy levels.
- Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation and yoga can help reduce stress.
Combining treatments
Combining different treatments can often provide the best results. For example, medication can help alleviate symptoms, allowing a person to participate more effectively in psychotherapy. Lifestyle changes can support overall treatment efforts and improve quality of life.
Importance of professional help
If you suspect that you or someone you know may be suffering from MDD, it is important to seek professional help. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation and develop a treatment plan that addresses the person’s needs.
Get Help for Major Depressive Disorder
Major Depression Disorder is a complex and challenging condition, but it is treatable. By understanding the symptoms, criteria and treatment options, you can take the first step towards managing MDD effectively. Whether it involves medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes or a combination of these approaches, there is hope for recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Granite Hills Hospital, located in West Allis, Wisconsin, we provide a continuum of care that includes inpatient and outpatient programs. If you are interested in treatment, view our services to learn more or call us today at 414-667-4800.
Disclaimer
If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, CALL 988 or get to the nearest emergency room.
For physical health emergencies, CALL 911 or get to the nearest emergency room.