Depressive

Depressive disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It is also known as major depressive disorder, clinical depression, or simply 'depression'.

Depressive disorder can affect a person's ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy life. The feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness can be intense and unrelenting, with little, if any, relief.

Symptoms

Depressive disorder symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:

• Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Loss of energy or increased fatigue
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Causes

Depressive disorder is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. It can occur at any age, but often begins in adulthood.

Treatment

Depressive disorder is a treatable condition. Treatment options include psychotherapy (talk therapy), antidepressant medication, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

See also

• Bipolar disorder
• Dysthymia
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Postpartum depression

External links

• National Institute of Mental Health - Depression
• Mayo Clinic - Depression

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