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What is Major Depressive
Disorder (MDD)?
W
hat is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?
Everyone experiences bouts of sadness.
Normally, this is a reaction to a particular
stressor such as a loved one’s death or losing
a job. However, it becomes abnormal and
is labeled a disorder when it is profound,
prolonged and excessive.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is also
known as major depression, clinical depression,
or unipolar depression. It is characterized by at least two weeks of
depressed mood and a decrease in interest in one’s usual activities.
Furthermore, symptoms interfere with daily functions at home, in school
or at work.
How does one know if one has MDD?
Major depression is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest
in usual activities once enjoyed and the inability to perform daily activities
for at least two weeks. Most depressed people may also feel other
physical and mental symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating,
remembering, or making decisions, feelings of hopelessness and
helplessness, headaches, body aches, and thoughts of suicide.
Some symptoms may manifest differently in each person. Some people
have trouble sleeping, lose weight, and generally feel agitated and
irritable. Others may sleep and eat too much while they continuously feel
worthless and guilty. Still others can function reasonably well at work
and put on a happy face in front of others, while deep down they feel
depressed and disinterested in life.
What are the risk factors and who are at risk?
In adults, major depressive disorder affects twice as many women as
men. Depression may occur in children, adolescents, and adults. The peak
age of onset is between 20 to 40 years old for both sexes while prevalence
rates peak in older adulthood (between 55-74 years old).
People with first-degree relatives with a mood disorder are twice as
likely to develop MDD.
Those who have gone through adverse life events (unemployment,
bereavement, psychological trauma) are more likely to develop
depression.
Up to 25 percent of those who are suffering from grave or chronic
medical illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, stroke or myocardial infarction
will experience depression during their illness.
How is it diagnosed?
A thorough examination of a patient’s medical history and mental status
can also assist in diagnosing MDD. There are no laboratory examinations
Disclaimer: Fit On Board gives only information that will help you understand ailments and its symptoms. Suggest
preventive measures but not as cures. It is still best suited for you to seek professional advice and consult your doctors…
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