Have you felt sad or had a loss of interest in doing anything for a long time? It could be a depressive disorder, a mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and behave. Let’s talk about it.
What is Depressive Disorder?
Depressive disorder, also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in regular activities. It can lead to various emotional and physical problems and affects how people function in daily life.
There are several types of depressive disorders, including:
- Major Depression – Has symptoms of depressed mood or loss of interest that persist for at least two weeks and interfere with daily activities.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder – Involves less severe symptoms of depression lasting for at least two years.
- Perinatal Depression – Occurs during or after pregnancy, with prenatal depression starting during pregnancy and postpartum depression occurring after childbirth.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder – Depression that occurs seasonally, typically during the late fall and early winter months.
- Depression with Psychosis – A severe form of depression where people may experience psychosis symptoms such as delusions or hallucinations.
Who does it affect?
Depressive disorder can affect anyone regardless of age, race, or sex, although it is 50% more common in women. More than 10% of pregnant and postpartum women experience it.
Causes
The exact cause of depressive disorder is unknown, but factors such as
- physical changes in the brain
- brain chemistry hormones
- inherited traits may play a role.
Symptoms
Symptoms of depressive disorder can vary but may include
- feelings of sadness
- irritability
- trouble concentrating
- changes in sleep and appetite
- fatigue
- thoughts of death or suicide
How it’s different from feeling depressed
Despite it becoming popular to say in everyday language, feeling depressed is different from having depression. If the depression goes away on its own and doesn’t affect your life in a big way, then it is unlikely you have a depressive disorder.
Treatments
This disorder is not something you can toughen your way out of. Many people who have depression treat it through:
- Medication – Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), Atypical antidepressants, Tricyclic antidepressants, Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and other medications may be prescribed to help with your specific disorder
and/or
- Psychotherapy – a term for treating depression by talking about it and other issues with a mental health professional.
There are also holistic remedies for feeling depressed. They include:
- Saffron – saffron extract may improve symptoms
- Setting a routine
- Exercising
- Eating healthy
- Talking to friends and family
Conclusion
Depressive disorder is a serious mental health condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depressive disorder, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Remember, support is available and you are not alone in your journey towards mental wellness. Use this information to keep yourself safe, and feel free to ask questions below!
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Please note, Aydan can’t give medical advice