Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder, also called major depression, is a type of depression characterized by a combination of symptoms that interfere with an individual’s thoughts, behavior, mood, activity, and physical health as well as a person's ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy once–pleasurable activities.

Among all medical illnesses, major depressive disorder or major depression, is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. and many other developed countries.

It is disabling and prevents a person from functioning normally. An episode of major depression may occur only once in a person's lifetime, but more often, it recurs throughout a person's life.

Causes:

There is no single cause. Psychological, biological, and environmental factors may all contribute to its development.

Whatever the specific causes of depression, scientific research has firmly established that major depression is a biological, medical illness.

Scientists have also found evidence of a genetic link. There is an increased risk for developing major depression when there is a family history of the illness. Not everyone with a genetic predisposition develops major depressive disorder, but some people probably have a biological make-up that leaves them particularly vulnerable to developing the problem.

Also, life events, such as the death of a loved one, a major loss or change, chronic stress, alcohol and drug abuse may trigger episodes of depression.

Some chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer and some medications may also trigger depressive episodes.

Although major depressive disorder can be a devastating illness, it is highly treatable. Between 80 and 90 percent of those diagnosed with major depression can be effectively treated and return to their usual daily activities and feelings.

Many types of treatment are available, and the type chosen depends on the individual and the severity and patterns of his or her illness. There are three well-established types of treatment for major depressive disorder are: medications, psychotherapy, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Additionally, support from friends, family and peer groups can promote recovery. Attention to lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and smoking cessation, can also result in better health, including mental health.

Medications:

There are several groups of antidepressant medications most often prescribed:

Patients and their families must be cautious during the early stages of medication treatment because normal energy levels and the ability to take action often return before mood improves. At this time - when decisions are easier to make, but depression is still severe - the risk of suicide may temporarily increase.

Also, different medications produce different side effects , and people differ in the type and severity of side effect they experience.

About 50 percent of people who take antidepressant medications experience some side effects, particularly during the first weeks of treatment. Rarely, serious side effects such as fainting, heart problems, or seizure may occur.

Psychotherapy should also be considered as a first line of defense in all types of depression.

While many forms of depression can also be treated in a more natural and safe way such as nutritional and herbal remedies, major depression is extremely serious due to the risk of suicide and should be treated immediatley by a physician.

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