A Review of Major Depressive Disorders
MDD, or clinical Depression is a severe mental illness that causes persistent sadness and lack of enthusiasm for activities once enjoyed. MDD patients may have trouble sleeping, sleep pattern changes, poor self-esteem and fatigue. They might even consider suicide. MDD is a debilitating condition that can have a significant impact on sanity and the quality of one's life. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies MDD as the most common cause of disability in the world.
Major Depressive Disorder: What Are the Causes?
Although the exact cause of MDD remains unknown, there may be several contributing factors. Some of these factors include predispositions and environmental stressors. Experts believe an imbalance in brain chemicals such as norepinephrine and serotonin could also be a factor.
The following are common causes of MDD:
- A family history of mood disorders
- Life events that cause stress, like a loss of a job, divorce or death in your family.
- Use of drugs or Alcohol
- Thyroid disorders, chronic pain and other medical conditions are some examples.
Major Depressive Disorder Treatment
MDD can be treated. There are many effective treatments. Most commonly, Medications or psychotherapy are used. Tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be used to reduce depression symptoms and regulate brain chemistry. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used to help change the negative thoughts and behavior patterns that lead to depression.
The National Institute of Mental Health states that up to 80 percent of MDD patients respond to treatment. It is crucial to remember that therapy and medication can be slow-acting. Therefore, you need to remain patient with your treatment.
Expert opinion on Major Depressive Disorder
MDD can be treated early and is a common condition. Experts believe this will lead to positive results. Executive director of University of Michigan Comprehensive Depression Center Dr. John Greden stresses the need to seek professional assistance if you suspect you might have MDD. He says that depression is serious and should be treated by a competent health provider. The sooner someone seeks treatment, better they will be able to recover.
Prevention tips and Natural Remedies
MDD symptoms can be relieved by natural and alternative treatments. Exercise, adequate sleep and a healthy diet all can help reduce stress levels and improve mood. Mindfulness meditation, yoga and acupuncture are all natural options. These remedies should not be considered a replacement for professional treatment and should always be used alongside other therapies.
It is hard to prevent MDD, because it isn't always easy to pinpoint what causes it. There are things that you can do in order to lower your chances of developing depression. You can reduce your risk of depression by engaging in meaningful activities, regular exercise, stress management, healthy living, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and engaging in routine physical activity. Strong social relationships and support can help reduce the likelihood of developing MDD.
Conclusion
Major depression disorder (MDD) is a severe mental illness that can severely impact your quality of life. Although the cause of MDD remains unknown, it can be caused by genetics as well as environmental and medical stressors. MDD can be treated with a variety of effective treatments, such as psychotherapy and medications. MDD can be treated early and properly managed. There are also lifestyle changes that could help reduce your risk.
MDD can be a complicated disorder. If you suspect you might have it, it's important that you seek medical attention. It is possible to live a happy, healthy life with MDD symptoms under the guidance of professionals.