Depression is often mentioned as being more than a matter of being a little down, and in the case of major depression, it presents an even more complicated, chronic problem. Major Depression Disorder is described by the National Alliance for Mental Illness, "Unlike normal emotional experiences of sadness, loss, or passing mood states, major depression is persistent and can significantly interfere with an individual's thoughts, behavior, mood, activity, and physical health."
Everyone experiences times of sadness and loss. Unfortunately, each individual will pass through difficulties in life such as the loss of a parent, spouse, or child. In these instances, depressive symptoms are normal. Eventually, however, people with depressive symptoms related to unpleasant events in life will gradually improve as they move through the stages of grief toward acceptance. Milder forms of depression, or Dysthymic Disorder, are serious ailments but not on the scale of Major Depressive Disorder. MDD, according to the National Institute for Mental Health, "…is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. for ages 15-44."
Generally speaking, the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder are similar in nature to those of milder forms of depression: sadness lasting lengthy periods of time, prolonged bouts of lethargy, feelings of despair, thoughts of suicide, and loss of interest in formerly enjoyed activities. However, in Major Depressive Disorder, the symptoms are more severe and last for a much longer span of time.
Only a healthcare professional can differentiate between the types of depression. Anyone experience symptoms of depression should seek medical care. Depressive symptoms can be indicative of underlying illness that go beyond mood disturbances. In any case, depression must be treated to prevent possible complications which can arise such as substance abuse, poor self-care, and even suicide.
Fortunately, depression, even Major Depression Disorder, is highly treatable through counseling, lifestyle changes, or drug therapies—all of which have improved over the years. Through proper care and attention, depressive disorders can be managed to improve the sufferer's quality of life and restore interest in activities of the past. Properly treated depression, in whatever form the disorder may take, does not necessarily need to have a major impact on an individual's prospects for the future.
