Major Depressive Disorder Flashcards, test questions and answers
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What is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major Depressive Disorder, commonly known as depression, is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by persistent low mood and a range of emotional symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping or concentrating, feeling down or hopeless, or having low self-esteem. Other common symptoms include fatigue and changes in appetite or weight. Depression can have a significant impact on everyday life, causing disruption to work and social activities.Depression is caused by a variety of factors. These can include genetic predisposition, biological factors such as hormonal imbalances or medical conditions, psychological factors like traumatic experiences and stressors, as well as environmental influences like poverty or lack of social support. The exact cause of depression is not fully understood but it usually involves an imbalance in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters that are responsible for regulating mood and other cognitive processes. Treatment for depression usually involves psychotherapy (counseling) combined with medication such as antidepressants to balance the chemical imbalances in the brain that contribute to depression symptoms. Treatment may also involve lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthy eating habits to manage stress levels more effectively. In some cases hospitalization may be necessary if the person’s symptoms become severe enough to pose an immediate danger to themselves or others. Depression can be debilitating but there are ways that people can manage their condition so they can live fulfilling lives despite their diagnosis. Support from family members and friends is important for recovery from major depressive disorder because it helps provide encouragement when times get tough and offers comfort when things seem hopeless. Self-care practices such as mindfulness meditation may also help reduce stress levels while providing focus on positive aspects of life which encourages a sense of hope during difficult times.