5 signs of major depression are having feelings of worthlessness or guilt, sleep disturbances, fatigue or lack of energy, loss of interest or Anhedonia and Empty Mood or persistent sadness.
A person that experiences major depression often experiences excessive and even inappropriate self blame or a sense of worthlessness.
The person with major depression may also experience insomnia or difficulty sleeping or hypersomnia which is sleeping too much almost everyday.
Major depression can also cause persistent tiredness, lethargy or feeling slowed down most of the day, which can make even small tasks difficult to perform.
Having major depression can also cause markedly diminished interest or pleasure in nearly all activities as well as hobbies and social interactions that the person once enjoyed before.
Major depression can also result in a consistent and long lasting feelings of sadness, emotional emptiness and even hopelessness.
Other common symptoms of major depression are weight and appetite changes, trouble concentrating, physical slowing and restlessness and even having recurrent thoughts of suicide or death.
Major Depression or Major Depressive Disorder is a serious and common mood disorder that lasts 2 weeks and hinders daily functioning.
Causes of major depression or major depressive disorder are complex interactions of your brain chemistry, genetics, trauma and even chronic illness.
Major depression and major depressive disorder is treated with medication, therapy and lifestyle changes.
Diagnosis for major depressive disorder requires at least 5 or more symptoms, which include either having a depressed mood or loss of interest for at least 2 weeks.
Symptoms of major depressive disorder include persistent sadness, hopelessness, irritability or feelings of worthlessness and or guilt.
Fatigue, insomnia or hypersomnia, weight and appetite changes, and unexplained aches as well as cognitive and behavioral issues like difficulty concentrating, slowed movement and speech, social withdrawal and recurrent thoughts of suicide or death.
Imbalances in neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, a first degree relative with depression, trauma, abuse, divorce or financial problems, chronic pain, cancer, heart disease, alcohol and drug misuse can also cause and make major depression and major depressive disorder worse.
And major depression and major depressive disorder is also more prevalent in women, often due to hormonal factors or social stressors.
The types of major depressive disorders include.
Major Depressive Disorder (Single or Recurrent Episode): The standard, acute form.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Less severe but lasts for at least two years.
MDD with Seasonal Pattern: Depression tied to seasons (formerly Seasonal Affective Disorder).
Peripartum/Postpartum Depression: Depression during or after pregnancy.