Feelings of sadness are common human emotions. When more severe symptoms like lack of energy and hopelessness develop in multiple areas of a person’s life along with persistent sadness over at least two weeks, they may be experiencing a condition known as major depressive disorder (MDD). MDD is sometimes also referred to as clinical depression. Fortunately, with early identification, diagnosis and a treatment plan that can include a combination of medication, psychotherapy and healthy lifestyle choices, many people with depression can and do get better.

Some will only experience one depressive episode in their lifetime, but for most, the episodes recur. Without treatment, episodes may last a few months to several years.

About 15.5% of U.S. adults experience major depressive disorder in a given year. People of all ages and all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds experience depression, but it does appear to be more prevalent in some groups than others.

Symptoms

A diagnosis of major depressive disorder requires two weeks of depressed mood or loss of interest in daily activities plus at least 5 of these symptoms that cause a decrease in the person’s functioning. The symptoms include:

• Changes in sleep
• Changes in appetite
• Lack of concentration
• Loss of energy
• Lack of interest in activities
• Hopelessness or guilty thoughts
• Physical aches and pains or feeling slowed down or agitated
• Suicidal thoughts

Additional Information

NAMI is the reference for information on this page. For more information about Depressive Disorder visit the NAMI website at www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/depression/. 

If you or a family member is experiencing a mental health or an alcohol or other drug-related emergency, seek immediate assistance 24/7 from the 988 suicide & Crisis Lifeline via phone, text or chat. You can also text "Hello" or "Hola" to 741741.