Profile of a Disorder: An Overview of Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorder worldwide. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of suicide or death (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). MDD is a serious and debilitating condition that affects an estimated 16.2 million adults in the United States (Kessler, Chiu, Demler, & Walters, 2005).
MDD is a recurrent disorder, meaning that individuals may experience multiple episodes of depression over their lifetime. It is widely accepted that MDD is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors (Caspi et al., 2003). For example, genetic factors such as having a family history of depression may increase one’s risk of developing the disorder, while certain environmental factors, such as stress and trauma, can also trigger episodes of depression.
MDD is typically treated with a combination of antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). In some cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
The impact of MDD can be far-reaching. People with MDD often experience significant impairment in their day-to-day functioning, as well as difficulties in relationships, work, and school. They may also be at increased risk for other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and bipolar disorder (Kessler et al., 2005).
In conclusion, MDD is a serious and debilitating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, and is typically treated with a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. MDD can have a significant impact on an individual’s life, and may increase the risk for other mental health disorders.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: Author.
Caspi, A., Sugden, K., Moffitt, T. E., Taylor, A., Craig, I. W., Harrington, H.,… Poulton, R. (2003). Influence of life stress on depression: Moderation by a polymorphism in the 5-HTT gene. Science, 301(5631), 386-389.
Kessler, R. C., Chiu, W. T., Demler, O., & Walters, E. E. (2005). Prevalence, severity, and comorbidity of 12-month DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(6), 617-627.