Clinical depression

Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder or simply depression, is a common and serious mental health disorder that negatively affects how a person feels, thinks, and acts. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable.

Symptoms

Symptoms of clinical depression can vary from mild to severe and may include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Causes

The exact cause of clinical depression is not known. However, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Some people may be more prone to depression if they have a family history of the disorder.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of clinical depression involves a medical evaluation and a psychiatric assessment. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides criteria for the diagnosis of depression.

Treatment

Treatment for clinical depression often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are commonly used. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can help people with depression understand and manage their symptoms.

See also

• Bipolar disorder
• Dysthymia
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Postpartum depression