Major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, is a mental health condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities that once brought joy. It is a mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. Symptoms of MDD can vary from person to person and may include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or oversleeping
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
MDD is a highly prevalent psychiatric disorder, with a lifetime prevalence of about 5 to 17 percent, with the average being 12 percent. It is diagnosed when an individual has a persistently low or depressed mood, anhedonia or decreased interest in pleasurable activities, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, lack of energy, poor concentration, appetite changes, psychomotor retardation or agitation, sleep disturbances, or suicidal thoughts. MDD is a chronic condition, but it usually occurs in episodes, which can last several weeks or months. Treatment for MDD may include one or a combination of the following: psychotherapy, antidepressant medication, electroconvulsive therapy, and exercise. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to recovery.
