Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental illness that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is a leading cause of disability globally with significant economic and social costs.
MDD is a chronic, recurrent, and severe form of depression that affects an individual’s mood, thoughts, and behavior. It interferes with daily activities, work, and causes significantly impaired functioning.
MDD Symptoms
MDD is a mental disorder that is characterized by several symptoms that last for at least two weeks. These symptoms include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, irritability, and loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed.
Other symptoms include sleep disturbances, appetite changes, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Epidemiology of MDD
MDD is a global health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 264 million individuals are affected by depression worldwide, with 50% of those cases being MDD.
Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and is responsible for 4.3% of the global burden of disease. Women are more likely to be affected by MDD than men, and the prevalence of MDD increases with age.
Risk Factors for MDD
Several risk factors are associated with developing MDD. Individuals with a family history of depression or a personal history of depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses are at increased risk for MDD.
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Other risk factors include chronic stress, trauma, substance abuse, chronic medical conditions, and a lack of social support.
Diagnosis and Treatment of MDD
Diagnosing MDD involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes a physical exam, psychiatric evaluation, and laboratory tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Treatment for MDD often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
The most common medication used to treat MDD is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Additionally, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may also be used to treat MDD.
Impact of MDD on Society
MDD has a significant impact on individuals and society as a whole. The indirect and direct costs of MDD are substantial and include healthcare costs, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life.
Additionally, individuals with MDD are at an increased risk for suicide, further contributing to the social and economic burden of MDD.
Conclusion
Major depressive disorder is a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting millions of individuals globally. The symptoms of MDD can significantly impair an individual’s quality of life and interfere with daily activities.
While MDD is a treatable illness, interventions must be implemented at the individual, community, and societal levels to address the social, economic, and health impact of MDD.
