Can a person who has major depression make decisions?

While depression can impact cognitive functioning and decision-making abilities, it does not mean that a person with major depression cannot make decisions altogether. However, due to the cognitive and emotional symptoms associated with depression, individuals may experience difficulties with decision-making processes.

Here are some ways in which depression can affect decision-making:

1. Cognitive Impairments: Depression can impair cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, and memory, which can make it challenging to process and analyze information necessary for decision-making. Individuals may experience difficulties in gathering and evaluating relevant information, leading to less informed decisions.

2. Negative Bias: Depression is often characterized by negative thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. This negative bias can influence how individuals perceive and interpret information related to decisions. They may focus more on negative aspects and potential risks, leading to pessimistic decision-making and a reluctance to take action.

3. Reduced Motivation and Energy: Depression can cause low energy levels and a lack of motivation, which can impact the ability to initiate and follow through with decisions. Indecisiveness may occur due to a lack of drive and enthusiasm for making choices.

4. Impaired Problem-Solving: Depression can hinder an individual's ability to solve problems effectively. This can make it difficult to evaluate different options, consider consequences, and make choices that are in line with personal goals and values.

5. Impulsive Behavior: In some cases, depression may lead to impulsive decisions, particularly when individuals experience intense negative emotions or feel overwhelmed. Impulsive decision-making can result from a desire for immediate relief from emotional distress.

6. Anhedonia: Anhedonia, or loss of interest and pleasure in activities, is a common symptom of depression. This can extend to decision-making, as individuals may feel indifferent towards different choices and lack the usual motivation to make decisions.

It's important to remember that depression affects individuals in different ways, and the severity and impact on decision-making can vary. In cases where depression significantly interferes with an individual's ability to make informed and rational decisions, seeking professional help from mental health experts is essential. They can provide support, strategies for managing depression symptoms, and guidance in making decisions when needed.