Introduction
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly known as depression, is a mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It is not just sadness or a temporary “low mood.” Depression can interfere with your ability to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy life.

Incidence
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting around 5% of the adult population each year. It can occur in anyone but is more frequent in women and those with a family history of depression.

Symptoms
Symptoms of MDD may include:

  • Persistent sadness or low mood most of the day.
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed.
  • Changes in appetite or weight (eating too much or too little).
  • Trouble sleeping (insomnia) or sleeping too much (hypersomnia).
  • Fatigue or lack of energy.
  • Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness.
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
  • Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches.
  • Thoughts of death or suicide.

These symptoms usually last two weeks or more and significantly affect your daily life.

Treatment
MDD is treatable with a combination of the following approaches:

  1. Therapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and change negative thought patterns.
    • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving personal relationships and coping skills.
  2. Medications
    • Antidepressants: Such as SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine), or others like bupropion or mirtazapine.
    • Medications can take 4–6 weeks to show full effects.
  3. Lifestyle Changes
    • Regular exercise.
    • Balanced diet.
    • Good sleep hygiene.
    • Stress management techniques.
  4. Other Options (if needed)
    • Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): For severe or treatment-resistant depression.
    • TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation): A non-invasive brain stimulation therapy.
    • Ketamine or Esketamine (Spravato): For rapid relief in severe cases.

What You Should Know
If you think you have depression, you’re not alone, and help is available. Talking to a healthcare provider is the first step toward feeling better.