Feeling Majorly Depressed?

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reports that of those ages 12 years and older, 8% reported that they were currently depressed. This survey was conducted between 2007-2010.The survey further found that women reported higher rates of depression than men in all age groups. Current depression was defined by those experiencing symptoms within the two weeks prior to completing the health survey. 

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) list several symptoms that must be present in order for a person to be diagnosed as experiencing a Major Depressive Disorder. These symptoms include:

1. Depressed mood more days than not, for most of the day (this can be self-reported feelings or reported observations by others), 
2. Loss of interest in most activities throughout the day
3. Weight gain or loss that is significant and not attributed to dieting( this can also be an increase or decrease in appetite)
4. Problems falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia) or excessive tiredness/problems staying awake during the day (hypersomnia)
5. Unintentional or purposeless motions such as pacing or tearing at the skin (psychomotor agitation)
6. Fatigue more days than not or a loss of energy
7. Excessive feelings of guilt or worthlessness most days 
8. Decreased ability to think or concentrate
9. Thoughts of suicide, attempts of suicide, or plans of suicide, that are recurrent

Of the symptoms listed above, five or more must be present within the same two week period, include item one and two of the preceding list, and impair normal functioning. Special consideration is given to a person's cultural expression of emotions, normal responses to significant losses (i.e within the context of a natural disaster), and an individual's history.  The DSM-V further outlines that these symptoms must cause distress in important areas of functioning (i.e personal relationships or work).

A licensed professional is essential in determining the cause of your symptoms which includes ruling out that the symptoms are not a result of another medical condition or substance use. There are also several other considerations, not outlined in this article, such as symptoms specific to children, which must be reviewed in order to be properly diagnosed. This article should not be used a diagnostic tool, only a licensed professional can properly diagnose.

Options for treatment may include antidepressant medication, group therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy. Contacting your primary care physician, local mental health service agency, or insurance carrier may further assist you with identifying treatment options available to you. With millions of Americans living with a mental health disorder in any given year, Major Depressive Disorder is viewed as a serious health diagnosis warranting treatment. If you're feeling majorly depressed, seek treatment.

 

Resources:

Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V)

National Alliance on Mental Illness Fact Sheet