Disease Insights: depression-mental-or-depressive-disorder
Welcome to the ultimate guide on depression mental or depressive disorder. Here, you'll find answers to the most common questions to help you or your loved ones understand and manage this condition better.
Sorry, we couldn't find any description for depression mental or depressive disorder.
Sorry, we couldn't find any symptoms information for depression mental or depressive disorder.
Sorry, we couldn't find any precautions for depression mental or depressive disorder.
Questions Covered:
- what is depression mental or depressive disorder?
- What are the usual symptoms of depression mental or depressive disorder?
- causes of depression mental or depressive disorder?
Answers:
Question: what is depression mental or depressive disorder?
Major depressive disorder (MDD), or clinical depression, is a common mood disorder that can affect anyone. Its most prevalent symptom includes persistent sadness or irritability.
Sadness is a natural part of the human experience. People may feel sad or depressed when a loved one passes away or when they're going through a life challenge, such as a divorce or serious illness.
These feelings are usually short-lived. When someone experiences persistent and intense feelings of sadness for extended periods, then they may have a mood disorder such as major depressive disorder (MDD).
Question: What are the usual symptoms of depression mental or depressive disorder?
A doctor or a mental health professional can diagnose MDD based on your symptoms, feelings, and behaviors.
Typically, you'll be asked specific questions or given a questionnaire so health professionals can better determine whether you have MDD or another condition.
To be diagnosed with MDD, you need to meet the symptom criteria listed in the 'Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5).' This manual helps medical professionals diagnose mental health conditions.
According to its criteria:
You must experience a change in your previous functioning.
Symptoms must occur for a period of 2 or more weeks.
At least one symptom is either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure.
You must also experience five or more of the following symptoms in the 2-week period:
You feel sad or irritable most of the day, nearly every day.
You're less interested in most activities you once enjoyed.
You suddenly lose or gain weight or have a change in appetite.
You have trouble falling asleep or want to sleep more than usual.
You experience feelings of restlessness.
You feel unusually tired and have a lack of energy.
You feel worthless or guilty, often about things that wouldn't usually make you feel that way.
You have difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions.
You think about harming yourself or suicide.
Symptoms in different age groups
Symptoms in teens
Symptoms parents should be aware of in their teens include the following:
onset or increased use of substances (i.e., alcohol, smoking)
poorer academic performance
problems with peers
increased social withdrawal/isolation
Symptoms in older adults
Depression symptoms in older adults are similar to other age groups. It's often the cause of physical pain in older adults that's not explained by other medical conditions.
Depression is common
in people with Alzheimer's and related dementias. It's sometimes called geriatric depression.
Older adults with one chronic health condition are 80%
more at risk of developing depression than the average person, especially if their function becomes limited.
Question: causes of depression mental or depressive disorder?
The exact cause of MDD isn't known. However, several factors can increase
your risk of developing the condition.
A combination
of genes and stress can affect brain chemistry and lower your ability to maintain mood stability.
Changes in the balance of hormones might also contribute to the development of MDD.
MDD may also be triggered by:
alcohol
or drug use
certain medical conditions, such as cancer or hypothyroidism
particular types of medications, including steroids
abuse during childhood
Useful Articles on depression mental or depressive disorder
Additional Information and Resources:
Conclusion & Takeaways
Learning about depression mental or depressive disorder is the first step toward taking control of your health. By understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments, you empower yourself to make informed decisions. Remember to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and support.