Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder marked by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest (anhedonia), and a range of cognitive and physical symptoms that impair daily functioning.
Key Points:
- Core Symptoms: Depressed mood, reduced pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
- Duration: Symptoms must be present most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.
- Prevalence: One of the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting people of all ages.
- Treatment: Often a combination of psychotherapy (e.g., CBT, interpersonal therapy), antidepressant medication (SSRIs, SNRIs), and lifestyle interventions (exercise, sleep hygiene).
