What causes major depressive disorder?
MDD can be trigged by:
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Certain medical conditions, such as cancer or hypothyroidism
- Particular types of medications, including steroids
- Loss of a loved one through death, divorce, or separation
- Social isolation or feelings of being deprived
- Major life changes -- moving, graduation, job change, retirement
- Personal conflicts in relationships, either with a significant other or a superior
- Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
What are the symptoms of major depressive disorder?
Symptoms of MDD include:
- Feeling sad or irritable most of the day, nearly every day.
- Less interested in most activities you once enjoyed.
- Suddenly lose or gain weight or have a change in appetite.
- Trouble falling asleep or want to sleep more than usual.
- Experience feelings of restlessness.
- Feeling unusually tired and have a lack of energy.
- Feeling worthless or guilty, often about things that wouldn’t normally make you feel that way.
- Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions.
- Harming yourself or committing suicide.
How is major depressive disorder treated?
Medication
Primary care providers often start treatment for MDD by prescribing antidepressant medications.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These antidepressants are frequently prescribed. SSRIs work by helping inhibit the breakdown of serotonin in the brain, resulting in higher amounts of this neurotransmitter.
Other medications: Tricyclic antidepressants and medications known as atypical antidepressants may be used when other drugs haven’t helped. They can cause several side effects, including weight gain and sleepiness.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, also known as psychological therapy or talk therapy, can be an effective treatment for people with MDD. It involves meeting with a therapist on a regular basis to talk about your condition and related issues. Psychotherapy can help you:
- Adjust to a crisis or other stressful event
- Replace negative beliefs and behaviors with positive, healthy ones
- Improve your communication skills
- Find better ways to cope with challenges and solve problems
- Increase your self-esteem
- Regain a sense of satisfaction and control in your life
Lifestyle changes
Eating right: Consider eating foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon. Foods that are rich in B vitamins, such as beans and whole grains, have also been shown to help some people with MDD. Magnesium has also been linked to fighting MDD symptoms. It’s found in nuts, seeds, and yogurt.
Avoiding alcohol and certain processed foods: It’s beneficial to avoid alcohol, as it’s a nervous system depressant that can make your symptoms worse. Also, certain refined, processed, and deep-fried foods contain omega-6 fatty acids, which may contribute to MDD.
Getting plenty of exercise: Although MDD can make you feel very tired, it’s important to be physically active. Exercising, especially outdoors and in moderate sunlight, can boost your mood and make you feel better.
Sleeping well: It’s vital to get at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Talk to your doctor if you’re having trouble sleeping.