Major depressive disorder is a condition that is characterized by the exhibition of sad, low moods for more than two weeks. The disease can impair your ability to carry out daily activities and even solve minor problems. Dr. Ajay Desai Lakeland is an experienced doctor who uses integrative medicine to ensure his patients’ mental health and overall wellness.
Causes of major depressive disorder
Also referred to as clinical depression, major depressive disorder stems from different causes like brain chemistry, inherited traits, biological differences, and hormones. The following can also trigger severe episodes of the condition:
- Traumatic events like the death of a loved one, sexual abuse, and financial problems
- Serious illnesses like cancer or chronic pain
- Personality traits like low self-esteem and dependency
- Certain medications – high blood pressure or sleeping medication
Symptoms of major depressive disorder
The signs and symptoms of major depressive disorder vary with age. The symptoms that children and teens exhibit will vary from those of older adults. While there are differences between the two, similar symptoms will include:
- Sadness
- Irritability
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Reduced appetite or craving for food
- Avoidance of social interactions
In children and teenagers, symptoms might include poor performance in school. Poor attendance or refusing to go to school. Children will exhibit clingy behaviors and might refuse to eat while teenagers sleep or eat too much. Teenagers feel misunderstood and sensitive. They might also consider self-harm and start using recreational drugs and abuse alcohol.
Symptoms in older adults include personal hygiene negligence, physical aches, suicidal thoughts, and memory difficulties. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, fatigue, and loss of interest in sex; medications do not cause these symptoms.
Treatment options for major depressive disorder
There are two major treatments for people suffering from major depressive disorder: medications and talk therapy. In most instances, specialists combine the two for effective results. The goal is to help the patient open up about what is happening around them.
Communication and transparency help a patient feel heard and understand that someone cares about what they are talking about. Medications are helpful because they can help a person with anger issues or irritability.
Tips to prevent major depressive disorder
You can prevent major depressive disorder if you check for the symptoms. You will be able to weather problems and challenges by talking about them. If you experience anything traumatic, seek help from relevant authorities, family, and friends.
The following are tips you can use to stay ahead of the disorder:
- Manage your stress levels
- Look for a support system that you can talk to through rough times
- Seek treatment from a specialist
- Continue with treatment if you are at high risk of getting the condition
If you have clinical depression or know someone suffering from the condition, visit Ayan Wellness and experience a caring staff offering personalized treatment to each patient. Call or book an appointment online and regain your mental health. Whatever the cause, the team will help you feel welcome and help you become a stronger person again.
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