Major Depression Disorder (MDD) – When to Get Help?

Depression comes in many forms and one of the severest forms is known as Major depression disorder (MDD). Major depression disorder is also referred to as clinical depression or unipolar depression among few other names. MDD is a mental disorder characterized by a prolonged form of depression that not only affects a person’s life, but can also impact the lives of those around them, as well.

There are several ways MDD can affect a person. Following are four common areas of life which can be greatly influenced by this disorder: Physical Health, Mental Health, Emotional State, and Social Life.

Let’s briefly take a look at signs and symptoms for each of the above. First, we will examine some physical health symptoms:

• Fatigue (always feeling tired and listless)
• Insomnia or Hypersomnia (having trouble falling asleep or feeling excessively sleepy during the day)
• Eating Habits (no interest in eating food that one used to enjoy)
• Self-Neglect (loss of concern for one’s personal health and appearance)

Following are some mental health signs:

• Confusion (being confused with common and routinely activities)
• Distractedness (physically being at a place, but mentally being elsewhere)
• Forgetfulness (forgetting even the basic things)
• Inability to Concentrate (cannot concentrate for even short periods)

As for emotional state, the following traits are found, albeit not necessarily all at once:

• A Glum Depressed Mood (one is always downcast)
• Anxiety (being restless and having a feeling of impending doom)
• Anger (easily snapping at people for no actual reason)
• Guilt (feeling guilty and sorry for oneself)

Finally, one’s social life can see these changes:

• Family Problems (arguing and fighting with family members)
• Problems with Friends (unexplained issues with friends)
• Distrust of People (inability to trust new people as well as trusted ones)

These symptoms will differ from person to person, but you will be able to recognize certain similarities.

When to get Help?

MDD is no different from any other illness. The earlier you get help, the easier it is to treat it. Unnecessary delay can result in grave consequences such as self-harm and even suicide. If you or your loved ones are experiencing any of the abovementioned symptoms for a prolonged period, then please consult a doctor or a mental health specialist.

When choosing a medical professional for the purpose of treating MDD, one should choose someone who is skilled and experienced in the field, will keep one’s records confidential, and is patient in dealing with the clients. Moreover, he/she should be someone who possesses the ability to develop a good understanding with his/her patients.

Dr. Ronald R. Fieve and his associates meets all of these requirements and more. Therefore, if you feel the need to assess your mental health or get a family member treated for depression, please book your consultation with one of our professionals today.