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Major Depressive Disorder
About Major Depressive Disorder
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is characterized by persistent and pervasive depressed mood or loss of interest and/or pleasure in daily activity that lasts for at least 2 weeks. The presence of 5 or more of the following symptoms is necessary for a diagnosis: depressed mood, markedly diminished interest or pleasure in activities, weight loss or gain (5% of weight in one month) or change in appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation or retardation, fatigue or loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, inability to think or concentrate, and recurrent thoughts of death. Social, occupational and other important functioning is negatively impacted. Treatment includes medications, such as antidepressants, and therapy.
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