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Signs of a Major Depressive Disorder

A major depressive disorder may also be referred to as major depression, unipolar depression, clinical depression or simply depression. To be diagnosed with a major depressive disorder, an individual must show at least five symptoms of depression that have lasted for at least two weeks. A major depressive disorder is thought to be the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. The chemical imbalance could occur as the result of life events or could be hereditary. Depression is generally treated with a combination of psychotherapy and prescription medications.

  1. Behavior Changes

    • Many individuals who have a major depressive disorder will experience behavior changes. Eating patterns may change, leading to weight loss or weight gain. A depressed individual may either have trouble sleeping or sleep excessively. Individuals with major depression may have frequent crying episodes, often for no apparent reason. Also, it is common for depressed individual to withdraw from their usual activities and to have little or no interest in participating in activities they once enjoyed.

    Negative Feelings

    • Individuals with a major depressive disorder typically have negative feelings. Affected individuals may feel sad, hopeless, helpless and worthless. Also, they may feel guilty about things for which they are not responsible and some may have suicidal thoughts. Often these negative feelings manifest as discouragement and anger.

    Irritability

    • A major depressive disorder is often characterized by irritability. Individuals with a major depressive disorder may be very easily irritated and annoyed by things that would not or should not irritate the average person. Also, individuals with a major depressive disorder may seem very agitated much of the time and may also seem restless frequently.

    Thinking Problems

    • Individuals with a major depressive disorder may have a lot of trouble concentrating. They may be very easily distracted, and they may seem preoccupied with negative thoughts. In addition, these individuals may have problems making important decisions. Individuals with severe depression may experience delusions and hallucinations. Often these delusional thoughts and hallucinations deal with feelings of guilt or inadequacy. Also, the thoughts and hallucinations may be related to irrational fears about health issues.

    Physical Symptoms

    • A major depressive disorder may cause physical symptoms to occur. Individuals with a major depressive disorder may suffer from frequent headaches. Also, they may feel fatigued often. They may experience other unexplained aches and pains, such as back pain, as well.

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