Depression and Major Depressive Disorder

You have probably heard the term “depression” before. Maybe you associate depression with sadness, or just feeling generally down or blue. While that is definitely part of it, it is certainly not the whole picture. Depression can manifest in different ways and each person may experience depression differently. For instance, for some it may come with a diagnoses of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

Major Depressive Disorder can significantly impact the quality of one’s everyday life. For example, it affects sleep, energy, concentration, appetite, irritability, agitation, behaviors, and the overall well-being of those diagnosed (Harvard Medical School).

It is important to look out for these symptoms amongst your family members and friends, as some of these signs can often be well hidden and go unnoticed. If you notice someone not seeming like themselves, often withdrawing themselves from social activities, or notice changes in the behaviors mentioned above and seem like they may be depressed, check in with them. Ask them how they are doing and offer support. Keep in mind that it can be difficult for people to talk about their depression due to fear of shame or judgement. Let them know you are there for them.

In terms of treatment for MDD, therapy and medication can help with the management of symptoms, although finding effective treatment can include a lot of trial and error and vary from individual to individual. Luckily, research and clinical trials have and continue to make significant contributions to the advancement of medicine and increase the potential for additional treatment options for this diagnosis.

If you are struggling with depression or MDD, know that you are not alone. There are resources out there that have proven to help, you just need to find the right ones for you. It is okay to reach out and ask for help, and if you are struggling, don’t forget to make time to take care of yourself and practice some self-care. If you have been through constant trial and error of trying to find a successful depression treatment and feel stuck, reach out to us to learn more about our MDD study as an alternative option!

Resources: https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/major-depression-a-to-z