Major depressive disorder, commonly referred to as depression, is a mood disorder that can severely affect your day-to-day routine. Sadly, a lot of people think of depression as sadness and low mood when in reality, it’s a lot more than that.
Plus, the increased number of cases has got everyone worried. Yet, the worst part of the story is that many people still fail to realize the severity of this disorder. As per World Health Organization, approximately 264 million people have depression worldwide.
Although avoiding it altogether isn’t possible, knowing all its details can help you steer clear of it. Now let’s dig into the details and check how depression manifests, what are its treatment options, and how it can be avoided.
Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder
As mentioned earlier, sadness and hopelessness are not the only symptoms of depression. Yes, there are many other symptoms that come with depression. Here is a list of the common symptoms major depressive disorder brings along:
- Loss of interest in everyday life activities
- Feelings of pessimism and sadness
- Constant fatigue and body aches
- Binge eating or loss of appetite
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Irritability, frustration, or angry outbursts
- Suicidal thoughts or likely attempts
Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
There are several ways to treat major depressive disorder. From allopathic drugs to alternative medicine and psychotherapy, there are so many options out there. You’re prescribed one depending on the severity of your symptoms and stage of the illness. Nonetheless, the commonly prescribed treatment methods include:
- Allopathic medications, including benzodiazepines and antidepressants to reduce the mood symptoms like sadness, hopelessness, and social withdrawal.
- Sleep-inducing agents are given in the case of insomnia to regulate your sleep and get back into a routine.
- Herbs and plants like ashwagandha and lizard king mushrooms are given as an alternative to antidepressants as they come with natural healing properties.
- Lifestyle rehabilitation is mandatory, which includes regular exercise like a morning walk in nature, morning yoga, and meditation.
- Journal writing is beneficial to put your thoughts and emotions in symmetry without any fear of being judged.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is also very important for people with depression as it alters your thought process, bringing a positive approach to your life.
Risk Factors of Major Depressive Disorder
Needless to say, researchers have failed to figure out the exact cause of depression. Nobody really knows how it takes place on an organic level; however, it has become clear in recent times that certain things contribute to the development of this disorder. They are as follows:
- Prolonged periods of stress, including the death of a loved one or financial crisis
- Direct or indirect exposure to a traumatic event, including both physical assault and mental abuse
- A first-grade relative like parents or siblings with a history of depression or any other mental health disorder
- Personal turmoil or conflicts with family or friends
- A history of drug or alcohol abuse (it can lead you to substance-induced depression)
Quite some information, eh? Take notes of all the things mentioned above and keep depression at bay. Good luck, guys!
