What is considered a major depressive disorder?

Overview. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

What are five characteristics of a major depressive episode?

Tiredness or lack of energy. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt. Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions. Thoughts of death or suicide – there may be suicide plans or suicide attempts.

What are the two major categories of major depressive disorder?

Major depressive disorder (MDD): Major depression (clinical depression) has intense or overwhelming symptoms that last longer than two weeks. These symptoms interfere with everyday life. Bipolar depression: People with bipolar disorder have alternating periods of low mood and extremely high-energy (manic) periods.

What it’s like living with MDD?

Living with major depression can feel lonely. People may be fearful or ashamed of being labeled with a serious mental illness, causing them to suffer in silence, rather than get help. In fact, most people with major depression never seek the right treatment. But those struggling with this illness are not alone.

Is major depressive disorder a disability?

Depression is considered a psychiatric disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It’s a significant mood disorder that’s known to interfere with daily activities, which may include your ability to work. Depression sometimes becomes so severe that you can no longer go to work.

How long does it take to recover from major depressive disorder?

Major depressive disorder (MDD) MDD episodes can last between 6 and 18 months or longer. If you start treatment soon after you experience the first symptoms, you might be more likely to recover and prevent future episodes.