Major Depressive Disorder Treatment

What Is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?

Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is a mental health condition that causes a persistent low mood and loss of interest in once-loved activities. It can alter how you think, sleep, eat, and act.

If you or a loved one is struggling with profound sadness or a sense of despair that disrupts every part of your life, seeking help from a licensed therapist at the first sign of symptoms is essential. Untreated depression can get worse and last longer. In severe cases, it can even lead to self-harm, including death by suicide.

If you are thinking about self-harm or suicide, please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 or go to your nearest emergency room for immediate medical care.

Major Depressive Disorder Symptoms

Major depressive disorder is more than feeling sad. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Feeling very sad, hopeless, or worried.
• Feeling easily irritated or frustrated.
• No longer enjoying once pleasurable activities.
• Eating too much or too little.
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much.
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
• Experiencing headaches, stomachaches, or sexual dysfunction.
• Having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

The licensed therapists at Beach House can help you identify why you’re struggling with depression and identify appropriate major depressive disorder treatment modalities to help manage your symptoms and work toward long-term recovery.

Causes and Risk Factors

Researchers do not know the exact cause of clinical depression but believe there are several contributing factors, including:

• Brain chemistry
  Those with an imbalance of serotonin, dopamine, and other feel-good hormones have a higher risk of developing MDD.
• Family history
  Those with a parent, child, or sibling with major depressive disorder are about three times as likely to develop the condition than the general population. However, it is possible to have depression without a prior family history.
• Health and medical conditions
  Those experiencing chronic pain or chronic conditions like diabetes have a higher risk of MDD.
• Trauma or life experiences
  Those who have experienced difficult life experiences (e.g., divorce, death of a loved one, isolation, lack of support, or other traumas) can develop depression.
• Certain medications and substance use
  Certain medications and substance use (e.g., alcohol or drugs) can cause depression or worsen symptoms.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of major depressive disorder or are concerned about your mental health, consult your healthcare provider or a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder

A medical professional or licensed therapist can diagnose MDD based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5)book, published by the American Psychiatric Association. These criteria include:

• Consistently depressed mood for at least two weeks.
• Greatly reduced interest or pleasure in all (or almost all) activities.
• Significant weight change or changes in appetite.
• Significant sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping).
• Fatigue or loss of energy.
• Pronounced feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
• Inability to concentrate or make decisions.
• Persistent thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

In addition to these criteria, your healthcare provider may recommend certain diagnostic tests to identify or rule out other conditions that may mimic or worsen symptoms of depression. These may include:

• Thyroid test
  An underactive thyroid can cause unintentional weight gain, fatigue, and low mood.
• Blood glucose test
  Low blood sugar can cause mood changes, fatigue, irritability, and frustration.
• Vitamin D test
  Low vitamin D is often linked to depressive symptoms.
• Toxicology screen
  Substance misuse or symptoms of withdrawal can mimic depression and may need to be evaluated.

These tests can help ensure you receive the most effective treatment.

MDD Treatment Options

Major depressive disorder is very treatable with a combination of therapy and medication. In fact, 80-90% of people with clinical depression can overcome their symptoms and enjoy a full and fulfilling life. 

Major depressive disorder therapy options include:

• Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)
  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective problem-solving therapy often used to treat depression. This treatment modality helps identify and replace negative thought patterns, improve mood and behaviors, and reduce the likelihood of relapse.
• Medication
  Antidepressants can help alter your brain’s chemistry and improve symptoms of depression.

Get Help for MDD Today

Beach House Center for Recovery offers several mental health treatment programs to help you find healing, hope, and a path to a brighter tomorrow.

Contact us today to get started.