Learn This Guide to Depression Counseling

According to the DSM, the following are the symptoms of MDD:

• A bad mood (e.g., melancholy, emptiness, and/or hopelessness) for most of the day, almost every day, as shown by either subjective report or observation from others (e.g., the person appears tearful). 

• Appetite changes, which frequently result in unexpected weight loss or increase (e.g., the person’s body weight fluctuates by more than 5% in a month).

• Nearly every day, I experience insomnia, hypersomnia, or other sleep disorders.

• Anhedonia is a loss of interest or pleasure in all or most activities during the day that occurs practically every day, as evidenced by subjective or objective accounts. 

• Agitation or psychomotor retardation (slowed movements and cognition) (sped-up or restless actions).

• Excessive weariness or loss of energy almost every day.

• Almost every day, I have thoughts of worthlessness or excessive/inappropriate guilt (which may be false). 

• Every day, you have a diminished ability to think, concentrate, or make decisions.

• Recurrent suicidal ideation regarding a specific plan, a suicide attempt, or a precise plan for executing suicide. If you are having suicidal thoughts, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Irritability (more common in men), hallucinations, memory issues, changes in libido, and bodily discomfort or chronic pain are also symptoms of depression. As people try to cope with their sorrow, social isolation and substance abuse can be signs of depression. In the safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere of therapy, mental health professionals can investigate all of these symptoms and their probable causes.

What Is the Outlook for People with Major Depression?

Major depression can have serious consequences in life, but the outlook is very positive for those who undergo depression treatment, particularly those who seek help early in the course of their condition.

The longer you wait to treat depression, the more probable it is that it may interfere with your career or study, your relationships, and your ambitions. Untreated depression can also lead to a slew of other problems in people’s lives as they try to escape their pain through drugs, alcohol, or seclusion. Untreated depression is also linked to a number of medical issues, including acute coronary syndrome.