Major depressive disorder, generally known as depression, is a mood disorder that comes with severe symptoms. It is often the reason behind most suicides in the world. Yes, if left untreated, the disorder can lead you to suicide.
Hence, it’s mandatory that you get appropriate treatment for it, and for that, you need an early diagnosis, of course. Now the question is, how to pinpoint the symptoms of major depressive disorder? How do you know if it is really something serious? In this article today, I’m going to answer all these questions for you.
I will highlight the symptoms, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and risk factors for major depressive disorder. Have a look:
Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder
- Loss of interest in everyday life activities
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Persistent feelings of hopelessness and sadness
- Constant body aches and fatigue
- Appetite and sleep disturbances
- Angry outbursts, frustration, and irritability
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
Diagnostic Criteria of Major Depressive Disorder
According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, you need to have five or more symptoms from the list mentioned above. Out of the five, one symptom must be either persistent depressed mood or loss of interest in everyday life activities. Plus, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks for an official diagnosis. An important point here is that these symptoms must not be a result of another medical condition or substance abuse.
Treatment Options for Major Depressive Disorder
- Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are prescribed to alter the chemicals in your brain
- Medicinal herbs like passionflower and penis envy mushrooms are recommended as a natural alternative to antidepressants and benzodiazepines
- Muscle relaxants are also prescribed in case of chronic body aches and recurring muscle tension
- Lifestyle rehabilitation, including exercise and meditation, is also essential if you wish to treat the disorder naturally and that too, with fruitful results
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is typically recommended to people who are on the road towards recovery or those who are already halfway through the medical course
- First and second-generation antipsychotics are often prescribed in the presence of psychotic symptoms or psychotic depression
Risk Factors Associated with Major Depressive Disorder
- Age or gender as women are more likely to get depression
- Loss or death of a loved one
- Familial conflicts and issues, including divorce
- A history of drug or alcohol abuse
- An underlying health condition like cancer or fibromyalgia
- Events like childbirth or loss of a job
- Redundancy or not having a routine
- Having a history of mental health disorders in family
The Takeaway
Knowing all these details can help you steer clear of the disorder. If not, it would be at least helpful to get an early diagnosis followed by proper treatment. Depression is entirely curable, so I’m sure it will benefit you. I wish you all the best, my friends. Have a wonderful day ahead!
