Major depressive disorder, commonly known as depression, is a mental disorder that affects close to 300 million of the world’s population. This illness is characterized by a constant or persisting feeling of sadness, despair, low self-esteem, and loss of interest in normal or enjoyable activities. Depression usually begins in a person’s 20s and is about two times more prevalent in females than males. There is no clear root cause of depression. However, several factors have been identified as contributing to the likelihood of developing the disorder. Genetics is one of these commonly recognized factors.

1. David Steinbok

2. Major depressive disorder, commonly known as depression, is a
mental disorder that affects close to 300 million of the world’s
population. This illness is characterized by a constant or
persisting feeling of sadness, despair, low self-esteem, and loss
of interest in normal or enjoyable activities. Depression usually
begins in a person’s 20s and is about two times more prevalent in
females than males.

3. There is no clear root cause of depression. However, several
factors have been identified as contributing to the likelihood of
developing the disorder. Genetics is one of these commonly
recognized factors.
A study by the DNA Learning Centre revealed an association of the
5-HTT gene with autism and depression. This genetic factor
implies that an individual genetically predisposed to depression is
likely to develop the disorder after going through a major or
minor occurrence in life.

4. Chemical imbalance in the brain has also been often highlighted
as a cause. However, how much and in what exact manner
chemicals and their interaction in the brain affect depression
remains unclear. Several cases of depression have also been tied
to childhood trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress disorder, abuse,
neglect, and in some cases, even certain medications like
barbiturates, isotretinoin, and corticosteroids.
Major events in a person’s life like a new job, death of a family
member, marriage, divorce or retirement, hormonal changes,
particularly in women, and alcohol or substance misuse, among
others, can also trigger depression. About 30 percent of
individuals with substance abuse issues have suffered from major
depression. Stress also often plays a big part in triggering the
condition.

5. There is no laboratory test for clinical depression. However,
doctors may identify symptoms in individuals by examining
behavior, lifestyle habits, and daily moods. Tests or physical
examinations can also be carried out to rule out other illnesses
with similar symptoms. Individuals with major depressive disorder
usually exhibit certain symptoms that doctors would look out for,
such as insomnia, fatigue, change in weight, difficulty
concentrating, and experiencing feelings of anxiety. A person may
experience psychotic symptoms like delusions or hallucinations in
some severe cases.

6. Major depressive disorder may result in very harmful
consequences. In the United States, depression accounts for about
70 percent of reported suicides each year. Moreover, depressed
individuals are about 20 percent more likely to take their own
lives. Depression also leads to various eating disorders and can
ultimately lead to digestive problems and malnutrition.
The most effective and commonly identified methods in treating
depression are; medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle and
dietary changes. Antidepressants are the prescribed medication
used for treating the disorder. These medications essentially
function to treat depressive symptoms by balancing the chemicals
in the brain known as neurotransmitters known to affect a
person's mood and emotions.

7. Psychotherapy is another effective way of dealing with depression.
Also known as "talk therapy," this treatment employs various
psychological techniques to help patients deal with negative
emotions or behavioral habits. Psychotherapy can be done
through cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, cognitive-
behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical behavior
therapy, or Interpersonal therapy. Individuals with depression are
also advised to take personal steps to improve their health by
getting sufficient sleep, avoiding substances and alcohol, and
making dietary changes.