Major Depressive Disorder, also called depression, is a worldwide disease. It is a psychological and mental health concern that affects a significant world population. Patients that suffer from long-term depression live at a high risk of death from suicides, heart diseases, strokes, respiratory disorders, and accidents.
The exact cause of depression is unknown. However, some emotional factors such as intense and prolonged sadness or loss can induce major depressive disorder. A combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors can as well lead to depression. Some common triggers are substance abuse, childhood trauma, stress, anxiety, and certain medical conditions.
Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder
A mental therapist or doctor can help you diagnose major depressive disorders based on several symptoms. The most common criteria used by experts to diagnose depression is the DSM-5. (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition). According to DSM-5, an individual is expected to experience five or more of the following symptoms during the same 2-week period.
1. You feel depressed most of the day almost every day.
2. You lose interest in enjoyable and fun activities
3. Significant weight loss or weight gain without a change in diet. Loss of appetite.
4. Constant feeling of restlessness.
5. You sleep more than usual or have trouble falling asleep.
6. Low self-esteem and victimhood perception of yourself and personality.
7. Inability to focus and concentrate. Difficulty in paying attention and indecisiveness.
8. Thought of committing suicide or harming yourself.
These symptoms are responsible for the negativity sufferers experience in their personal, family, career, and social life. Physical symptoms of MDD include the alteration of the sleep pattern and appetite of an individual.
Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
From pharmacist to therapist, the effective treatment of depression is a task for all. People with depression are typically treated either by antidepressants medications or psychotherapy, or even both at times. Look at https://emdrhealing.com/betterhelp-promo-code/ to find discount codes..
Psychotherapy or Non-Drug Therapy
Non-drug treatments, Psychological therapy, psychotherapy, or talk therapy is another effective way to treat MDD patients. It is a depression counseling program wherein patients discuss their conditions and feelings with a therapist. An example of non-drug therapy is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a psychological intervention that explores how individuals feel and how behavior is related to these feelings.
There are other types of therapy available, such as interpersonal therapy. Some people respond better to this than CBT. However, it is important to Understand the difference between CBT and IPT before you engage, to get the best out of your treatment.
Psychotherapy helps sufferers achieve balance and find better ways of coping with adversities. Psychotherapy from nyc psychotherapists is used in the treatment of a moderate or severe disorder. Most times, in combination with an antidepressant.
Antidepressants Medications
Antidepressants are the primary treatment for a moderate and mild disorder that has lasted for more than three months. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are an example of effective antidepressants.
The brain chemical responsible for mood is called serotonin. Those with depression are believed to have a low level of serotonin. Doctors prescribe SSRIs to inhibit the breakdown of serotonin in the brain. Thus, improving moods and enhancing patient sleeping habits.
Conclusion
As you work with your doctor to overcome depression, keep in mind that some antidepressants are likely to cause weight gain or sexual dysfunction. These are often the side effects of antidepressants. Make sure you seek expert advice before using one.
