The Life Cycle of Depression

Recurrent major depressive disorder is a chronic condition resulting in multiple symptomatic episodes over the course of the illness. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), depressive episodes can last anywhere from two weeks to over a year when left untreated.

Significance

• Recognizing that depression is a chronic illness that worsens over time increases motivation for treatment. The DSM-IV states that patients diagnosed with recurrent major depressive disorder tend to have longer periods of remission during earlier phases in the cycle and shorter recovery periods in later stages.

Identification

• Identifying a depressive episode includes looking at symptoms such as fluctuations in weight, appetite and sleep, decreased level of functioning in work or school settings, disrupted relationships, withdrawal from others or loss of pleasure in activities once enjoyed. The condition becomes recurrent and cyclical with each subsequent and isolated mood episode.

Features

• Diagnosing the condition includes looking at whether or not the mood symptoms occur as a single episode or recurrent episode of depression. The cycle of recurrent episodes in life is variable; episodes may come in clusters, be isolated with several years in between or become more frequent and long-lasting over time.

Considerations

• Experiencing depression can occur at any time. According to the DSM-IV, the average age of onset often occurs in young adulthood. The cycle of recurrent major depression is fueled by persistent negative thinking that perpetuates pessimistic views of the world and melancholy.

Treatments

• Treating depression includes participation in cognitive therapy and using medication, such as an antidepressants to control symptoms.