Depression, also called major depressive disorder (MDD), is a common mood disorder characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness, and a loss of interest in things that were once enjoyed. It has a negative impact on a person’s feelings, thinking, and behavior. This illness could cause problems both physical and emotional. It can affect a person’s day-to-day life, making it difficult to function normally, and may affect the quality of his or her living.
Depression is not the same as the usual sadness or grief. To be diagnosed with it, a person has to display symptoms that last a minimum of two weeks. Depression may either be long-term or short-term. It is a treatable illness, and is typically treated through medication or psychotherapy.
Though it can begin at any age, this mood disorder typically starts in the teens up to one’s 30s. There are more women who are diagnosed with it than men. An estimated 6.7% (one in 15) adults are affected with depression in every year, and 16.6% (one in six) people will get it at some point in their life. Unfortunately, despite its being a common disorder, depression remains a taboo subject for many. It is either considered a stigma, or brushed off by those who don’t understand the illness. This is why some people suffering from depression fail to seek help, or are unable to even recognize their symptoms.
It is time to break the stigma and acknowledge this illness. If you have been feeling sadness or negativity, or otherwise think you might be depressed, check out this list of symptoms of depression.
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