What is Clinical Depression? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It is more than just feeling down or having a bad day; it is a severe medical condition that can significantly impact a person’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Continue to read more about clinical depression, signs and symptoms, and treatment options you can explore.


What is Clinical Depression?

Clinical depression is characterized by the continuous loss of interest and extreme sadness. Sometimes, people confuse depression with mood fluctuations, an everyday occurrence. Various events may lead one to depression, including loss of a source of income and bereavement. However, physicians may only consider the grief to be part of depression in case it persists. Depression is an ongoing problem; it may last for months or several years if not managed early enough.

Individuals experience this clinical depression in various ways. For others, it may interrupt their occupation, leading to loss of time and reduced productivity. Depression can negatively influence relationships and sometimes causes chronic health problems. Conditions that can exacerbate because of clinical depression are obesity, diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and arthritis.

It’s essential to remember that everyone will face feeling sad due to upsetting situations and circumstances. However, a feeling of constant hopelessness may be an indication of depression. Clinical depression is a severe medical disorder that exacerbates without prompt medical attention. Depressed individuals who seek help immediately report significant symptom improvement after a few weeks.

Clinical Depression Symptoms

Major depressive disorder can manifest with various signs of clinical depression. But not everyone with depression will experience all these symptoms, and the severity and duration can vary from person to person.

If you or someone you’re concerned with is experiencing several of these symptoms consistently for at least two weeks, it is recommended to seek professional support. Here are some common signs and symptoms of clinical depression:

  • Loss of energy or fatigue.
  • Excessive or little sleep.
  • Unintentional gain or loss in weight.
  • Variation in appetite.
  • Low libido.
  • Reduced interest in hobbies or activities you used to enjoy.

Other symptoms are suicidal thoughts, difficulty making decisions or concentrating, and a feeling of worthlessness. Recent studies reveal that women are more prone to depressive illness than men. Ruminating, fatigue, mood swings, anxiety, and irritability often characterize Clinical Depression in females. Pre-menstrual dysphoric disorders and post-partum depression are also unique to females.

As per American Psychological Association, 9% of US males are prone to clinical depression or anxiety. Depressed males are more likely to abuse alcohol, take risks, and display anger than depressed females. In their tasks, depressed men may work without breaks, evade social and family functions, and experience challenges in keeping up with family and work responsibilities.

Clinical depression is more than just feeling down or having a bad day; it is a severe medical condition that can significantly impact a person's daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Clinical depression is more than just feeling down or having a bad day; it is a severe medical condition that can significantly impact a person’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Clinical Depression Test

Because depression may co-occur with other health conditions, the physician will carry out physical examinations and even order blood tests where necessary. Note that vitamin D deficiency and thyroid problems may trigger depression symptoms in some cases. Do not underrate the clinical depression signs; seek medical attention promptly if your mood fails to improve. Untreated depression is associated with severe complications such as:

  • Self-harm.
  • Suicidal thoughts.
  • Social isolation.
  • Relationship challenges.
  • Panic attacks.
  • Substance abuse.
  • Physical pain.
  • Weight loss or gain.

There is no particular diagnostic clinical depression quiz. However, your physician will diagnose based on the psychological evaluation and the available symptoms. During diagnosis, the physician may inquire about your thoughts, activity level, sleep patterns, appetite, and mood.

Clinical Depression Diagnosis Fact Sheet

Clinical Depression vs Depression

What is the difference between clinical depression and depression? Clinical depression meaning and depression are often used interchangeably, but there can be some distinctions between clinical depression vs major depression terms.

Depression is a common mood disorder characterized by persistent hopelessness, sadness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. It can vary in severity and duration and can be triggered by various aspects such as life events, stress, or medical conditions.

On the other hand, clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a specific diagnosis made by mental health professionals. It is a more severe type of depression that meets specific diagnostic criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To be diagnosed with clinical depression, an individual must exhibit particular symptoms consistently for at least two weeks and experience a significant impairment in daily functioning.

The term “clinical” in clinical depression definition emphasizes that it is a diagnosable medical condition often requiring professional treatment. It distinguishes it from short periods of sadness or low mood that may be a natural response to life’s challenges.

Regarding situational depression vs clinical depression, while depression can refer to a range of mood disorders, clinical depression explicitly denotes a more severe and persistent form of depression that meets specific diagnostic criteria. It is crucial to consult with a mental health professional for an accurate clinical depression versus depression diagnosis and appropriate treatment for depression.

Is Clinical Depression a Disability?

Clinical depression can be considered a disability under certain circumstances. In many countries, including the United States, depression and other mental health conditions can be regarded as disabilities if they substantially limit a person’s ability to perform major life activities.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States defines disability as a mental and physical impairment that significantly limits one individual or more major life activities. Major life activities include working, concentrating, interacting with others, sleeping, and caring for oneself. If clinical depression significantly impairs a person’s ability to engage in these activities, it may be considered a disability under the ADA.

If clinical depression is recognized as a disability, individuals may be entitled to certain rights and accommodations. These can include workplace accommodations, such as flexible schedules or adjustments in job duties, as well as protections against discrimination in employment and other areas.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and recovery from clinical depression is possible with appropriate treatment and support. Don't hesitate to contact professionals and loved ones to start your journey toward healing.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and recovery from clinical depression is possible with appropriate treatment and support. Don’t hesitate to contact professionals and loved ones to start your journey toward healing.

How Do Mental Health Experts Diagnose Clinical Depression?

Mental health experts use various methods to diagnose clinical depression, clinical manic depression, and borderline clinical depression. Here are some common approaches and diagnostic tools they may utilize:

  • Clinical Interview: A mental health professional will conduct a thorough clinical interview to gather information about a person’s symptoms, medical history, family history, and potential triggers or stressors. This interview helps in assessing the presence and severity of depressive symptoms.
  • Diagnostic Criteria: Mental health professionals refer to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a widely recognized diagnostic manual used in the mental health field. The DSM-5 provides specific criteria that must be met for a diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD), including the duration and severity of symptoms.
  • Symptom Assessment: Mental health experts will assess the presence and severity of symptoms associated with clinical depression. These may include feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
  • Rating Scales and Questionnaires: Mental health professionals may use standardized rating scales or questionnaires, such as the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) or the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), to help assess the severity of depressive symptoms and track changes over time.
  • Medical Evaluation: A physical examination and laboratory tests may be conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions or medications contributing to depressive symptoms. Some medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or vitamin deficiencies, can mimic or exacerbate depressive symptoms.
  • Duration and Impairment: To diagnose clinical depression, mental health professionals look for the presence of depressive symptoms that persist for a significant period (typically at least 2 weeks) and significantly interfere with a person’s ability to function in various areas of life, such as self-care, work, and relationships.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) Criteria for Clinical Depression

What are the symptoms of clinical depression? In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the criteria for diagnosing major depressive disorder (MDD), commonly called clinical depression, are outlined. Here are the DSM-5 criteria for a diagnosis of MDD:

  1. Depressed mood: The individual experiences a depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day. This can be observed by the individual or reported by others.
  2. Loss of interest or pleasure: The individual experiences a significant loss of enjoyment in most previously enjoyable activities. This can include activities that were once pleasurable or meaningful.

In addition to the above two core criteria, the individual must experience at least five symptoms, which must be present for at least 2 weeks and represent an alteration from previous functioning. These symptoms should cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning:

  • Consequential weight loss or gain or a change in appetite.
  • Insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness).
  • Psychomotor agitation or retardation (observable restlessness or slowness of movements).
  • Fatigue or loss of energy.
  • Feelings of worthlessness or extreme guilt.
  • Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness.
  • Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or a suicide attempt.

To meet the criteria for MDD, these symptoms should not be better accounted for by other factors such as a medical condition or the effects of substances or be better explained by another mental disorder.

A qualified healthcare professional or mental health provider should make the official diagnosis based on a thorough assessment and evaluation of an individual’s symptoms and history. The DSM-5 criteria provide a guideline for diagnosing clinical depression, but a comprehensive assessment is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Anxiety and Depression Clinics Near Me

When looking for “paid depression clinical trials near me” or “clinics for depression near me,” several key factors must be considered. Here are some critical clinical practice guidelines for depression:

  • Treatment Approach: Research and understand the treatment approaches used at the rehab facility. Look for clinical trials for depression and evidence-based therapies proven effective in treating anxiety and depression, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or mindfulness-based therapies.
  • Accreditation and Licensing: Ensure the rehab facility is accredited and licensed by reputable organizations and regulatory bodies. Accreditation signifies that the facility meets specific standards of care and has undergone rigorous evaluation processes.
  • Many individuals with anxiety or depression may also have co-occurring mental health conditions or drug abuse issues. Finding a “depression clinic near me” with expertise in treating dual-diagnosis cases is crucial to ensure comprehensive and integrated care.
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Clinical Depression Statistics

Clinical depression can significantly impair daily functioning. It affects various aspects of life, including work, relationships, and self-care. In severe cases, it can lead to disability and reduced quality of life.

Unfortunately, there is a treatment gap for depression, with many individuals not receiving adequate care. Estimates suggest that only about half of individuals with depression receive the necessary treatment.


17.3 Million

In the United States, major depressive disorder affects approximately 17.3 million adults annually or about 7.1% of adults.

Source: CDC

50%

According to research, individuals who have experienced one major depressive episode have a 50% chance of experiencing another one in their lifetime. The likelihood of recurrence increases with each subsequent episode.

Source: NCBI

15-29

Depression is a significant risk factor for suicide. The WHO states that suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29, and depression is often associated with increased suicide risk.

Source: WHO


Clinical Depression Causes & Risk Factors

Several factors may cause clinical depression among men and women. Some of the risk factors and the signs and symptoms of clinical depression include the following:

Clinical depression co-occurs with other mental health disorders like anxiety, substance use, and eating disorders.
Clinical depression co-occurs with other mental health disorders like anxiety, substance use, and eating disorders.

Genetics and Family History

If any of your family members suffer or have suffered mood disorders or clinical depression, you are at risk of getting depression as a disorder. Studies estimate that about 40% of depressive illnesses are genetically determined.

Substance Use

It is normal to be emotionally low at given times as it resolves with time. However, for the depressed, periods of being low emotionally do not disappear quickly. Individuals with depressive disorders tend to abuse alcohol and drugs. Alcohol is a depressant in the CNS (central nervous system), and when used, it exacerbates clinical signs of depression, such as hopelessness, sadness, and lethargy.

Surprisingly, most depressed people seek alcohol or drugs to lift their spirits or numb painful thoughts. The outcome is that addiction and depression feed into each other and worsen. Clinical depression is associated with high risks of suicide, self-harm, and accidental injury.

Depression compromises your immune system and weakens your body, making you more prone to chronic and physical illnesses. Note that there are also prescription drugs known to amplify clinical depression. Such drugs include beta blockers, corticosteroids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, statins, and anti-convulsants.

Stress

Stress is good because it keeps us primed, motivated, and alert to respond to danger. As anyone with a task deadline approaches, stress mobilizes the human body to act accordingly, improving performance. However, excessive stress may cause severe clinical depression in individuals who are at risk. Both acute and chronic stress are essential contributors to depression development because they cause over-stimulation of the stress-response mechanism.

After a challenging situation, the stress response is expected to reset and shut off. If the stress response fails to shut off, depression may set in. No one escapes stress because it may originate from several factors, including natural disasters, divorce, loss of work, and loss of a loved one.

It is normal and healthy to grieve after losing a loved one. Grieving individuals may lose pleasure in several activities, experience poor appetite, and have insomnia. These symptoms should subside with time. However, persistent grieving may land one into clinical depression.

Poor Nutrition

Diet is a crucial part of mental health. Recent studies reveal that a diet comprising of antioxidants, low-fat dairy, olive oil, fish, whole grain, vegetables, and fruits significantly reduced symptoms of clinical depression. Individuals who excessively consume processed foods are at increased risk of depression. Other external factors commonly associated with mental health disorders include poverty, living in disadvantaged communities, or poor physical fitness. Researchers believe that inequalities have a complex interaction with poor nutrition.

Disturbances in the Circadian Rhythm

Interruption of the circadian rhythm is common among depressed individuals. Although the changes are considered contributing factors to depression, it is also possible that depression may be the cause. Depressed individuals may report severe symptoms either in the morning or evening. With major depressive disorders, severe symptoms are common in the morning. Alterations in the sleep-wake cycle, hormone rhythms, social rhythms, and rhythms in body temperature are observed in patients with major depressive disorders. Studies indicate that the extent of major depressive disorder is directly linked with the degree of circadian rhythm alignment.

Female Sex Hormones

Women admit that they experience more depression than men. The gender disparity could be explained by hormonal, biological, and social factors unique to females.

Pre-Menstrual Challenges

During the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations may cause pre-menstrual syndrome symptoms. In some females, the symptoms may be so disabling and severe, warranting pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder diagnosis. PMDD is associated with irritability, depression, and several other mood disturbances from ten to 14 days before the period.

Hormonal changes in pregnancy are risk factors for clinical depression, especially in women at risk. Other pregnancy-related factors, like infertility, unwanted pregnancy, and miscarriage, may also lead to depression. After delivery, some mothers may experience ‘baby blues.’ It is a normal reaction that should disappear after a few weeks. However, some women experience chronic, lasting depression, known as post-partum depression, which is influenced by hormonal fluctuations.

Menopause and Perimenopause

During perimenopause, there is a high fluctuation of hormones as the body prepares to get into menopause. Women in this stage are at heightened risk of depression. Moreover, it worsens for women with a history of depressive illness.

Studies also reveal that women release more stress hormones than men. Progesterone hormone, predominant in females, prevents cortisol from turning off itself as required. The outcome is that women will be at increased risk of developing stress-induced clinical depression.

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Effects of Major Clinical Depression on Physical Health

Depression can influence an individual’s physical health in several ways, including weight gain or weight loss. Depressed individuals report appetite variation, directly affecting whether they will lose or gain weight. Medical experts relate excess weight gain to various conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Depression can also lower your motivation to make positive lifestyle changes. The risk of heart disease increases when you adopt a sedentary lifestyle and take an inappropriate diet. Studies reveal that one out of five individuals with coronary artery disease or heart failure suffers from depression, making it an independent risk factor.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Depressed individuals often experience gastrointestinal challenges such as constipation, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Some depressed patients experience irritable bowel syndrome. According to research in 2016, the GIT symptoms are experienced because depression alters how the brain responds to stress by suppressing operations in the hypothalamus, adrenal, and pituitary glands.

Sexual Health Challenge

Clinical depression will influence every aspect of your life, and sex life is not spared. Depression can directly lower your sex drive. Besides, even antidepressants may lower libido. Depressed individuals have a challenge initiating and enjoying sex. Low libido psychologically impacts an individual’s ability to be aroused, maintain an erection in men, and reach orgasm. Researchers claim that the touch sensation is vital in sexual health.

The specialists highly recommend including your partner in therapy for clinical depression. Partners who freely talk about sexual dysfunction and solve problems reduce the pressure a given individual may feel. Moral support and understanding may provide room for improvement because the situation becomes less stressful.

Although antidepressants are effective against depression, some are associated with anorgasmia, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and low libido. Patients on antidepressants who experience the above side effects should promptly reach out to their physicians to recommend an alternative medication with less impact on sexual health. Apart from the drugs, the physician will also determine if other co-occurring conditions, such as low testosterone and contraceptives, could influence sexual function.

Exacerbating Health Condition

Individuals with underlying chronic conditions experience worsening symptoms as they develop depression. However, the already stressful or isolating chronic illness, depression, will exacerbate the feeling. According to studies, most depressed individuals fail to comply with their underlying chronic conditions’ treatment plans, leading to worsening symptoms. It would be best if individuals with depression and chronic conditions contacted their physicians for assistance. Protecting mental health will directly improve chronic diseases and physical health.

Clinical depression can have a significant impact on work productivity and functioning. It is a leading cause of disability and absenteeism in the workplace, resulting in economic costs for individuals, employers, and society.
Clinical depression can have a significant impact on work productivity and functioning. It is a leading cause of disability and absenteeism in the workplace, resulting in economic costs for individuals, employers, and society.

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Clinical Depression Treatments

How to treat clinical depression? It is challenging to live with depression. However, various treatments can boost the quality of life. In some patients, one form of clinical depression behavior therapy effectively manages their conditions. For others, effective treatment requires a combination of treatments for clinical depression. Your physician will determine the most suitable treatment based on your situation and symptoms. Some physicians prefer combining lifestyle therapies with the medical treatment of clinical depression.

Medication for Clinical Depression

The standard combination therapy comprises anxiolytics, antipsychotics, and antidepressants.

Anxiolytics

Anxiolytics are particularly effective when depression and anxiety are co-occurring. Studies reveal that about 70% of depressive disorders are associated with stress. Although the etiology of the two could be different, they share some symptoms. The symptoms include insomnia, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. If you experience the above symptoms, promptly contact your physician for assistance.

Antipsychotics

These are pharmacotherapies that should be taken as prescribed by the physician. It may take some time before significant improvement is noticed, but with non-adherence, therapy will fail. It is also advisable to complete the dosage as recommended by the physicians. Individuals who stop the medication after realizing improvement are at significant risk of relapse.

Antidepressants

Classes of antidepressants include atypical, tricyclic, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and others. Each category of antidepressant acts on different neurotransmitters or combinations of neurotransmitters.

While taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, patients may realize symptoms such as sexual dysfunction, rash, weight loss, low blood sugar, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea. Discuss with your physician any unusual symptoms you realize while on the medications. There are antidepressants associated with increased suicidal thoughts among adults, teenagers, and even children.

Natural Remedies for Treating Clinical Depression

There are herbal remedies effective in managing mild and moderate depression. However, the products may not be effective and safe because the FDA does not monitor them. Some popular plants used in managing depression include lavender, chamomile, ginseng, and St. John’s Wort. St. John’s wort is inappropriate for individuals with bipolar disorder as a co-occurring condition. Lavender is effective against insomnia and anxiety.

Before using these herbal products, you should talk to your physician because some are toxic. Besides, there could be an interaction between these herbal products and antidepressant medications. Some supplements are effective against mild to moderate depression. Examples include 5-hydroxytryptophan and S-adenosyl methionine. Hydroxytryptophan boosts serotonin neurotransmitters in your brain, which is responsible for an individual’s mood.

Patients may also consider omega-3 fatty acids vital for brain health and neurological development. Adding omega-3 supplements reduces symptoms associated with depression. Inhaling essential oils such as wild ginger and bergamot have also proved to boost serotonin levels in the brain. Vitamin B6 and B12 are particularly crucial for brain health. With reduced vitamin B12 in the body, an individual is at high risk of developing depression.

Psychotherapy Treatment for Clinical Depression

For the holistic management of depression, psychological therapies are crucial. The programs include problem-solving, interpersonal, and cognitive-behavioral therapies. Some specialists may recommend psychotherapy as the first line in managing clinical depression. Other patients respond better when combined with clinical depression medications and psychotherapy. The CBT sessions could be over the phone, individually with the specialists, or in groups.

Clinical Depression Therapies & Exercise

Regular exercise may boost serotonin levels in the brain. Because the hormone regulates appetite, sleep, mood, and sleep, there will be an improvement in these functions. Exercise also boosts the concentration of endorphins which lifts mood. Regular exercise will:

  • Increase a sense of control and boosts self-esteem because it enables patients to take control of their conditions.
  • Reduce loneliness and provide social support when carried out in a group.
  • Improve sleep.
  • Increase energy levels.

Studies reveal that frequent exercise is particularly effective against non-melancholic depression, especially for individuals who are inactive or have a sedentary lifestyle. Note that the activity (movements) does not have to be strenuous. Just a daily brisk walk is beneficial. For chronic melancholic depression, exercise is only effective when combined with psychological or medication therapies.

Besides depression management, regular exercise has proven beneficial for physical health. The benefits include preventing stroke, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, and other cardiovascular conditions.

Brain Stimulation Clinical Depression Therapy

Continuous transcranial magnetic stimulation will send magnetic pulses to your brain, vital in managing major depression. For depression unresponsive to drug therapy, the individual may benefit from clinical depression electroconvulsive therapy. It is the most suitable management, especially when psychosis co-occurs with depression.

The interrelation between stress and depression is circular and complex. Stressed individuals assume healthy lifestyle habits. They ignore physical activities and drink and smoke excessively. Behaviors resulting from stress are risk factors for major depression. Losing your income source will lower your self-esteem and lead to detachment from the social contacts that protect against depression.

For individuals with major clinical depression, it is not the right time for lifestyle modification. However, you can protect against early episodes of depression or depression re-occurrence by embracing lifestyle modifications that influence stress response. It is necessary to build resilience, especially if you have chronic stress from factors like unemployment.

Managing clinical depression entails getting the right combination of therapies and medications. If a given treatment fails, share with your doctor an alternative plan to get rid of depression and live a happy life. If you or someone you’re concerned with is battling depression, do not hesitate to contact We Level Up treatment center, we can help you explore therapies, such as clinical depression cognitive behavioral therapy.

Clinical Depression Treatment

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Top 10 What Does Clinically Depressed Mean? FAQs

  1. What causes clinical depression?

    Major depressive disorder is a complex condition. There are various potential causes of clinical depression. The exact cause of depression is not yet fully understood, but research suggests that it likely results from genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Technically, clinical depression vs major depressive disorder is similar.

  2. Am I clinically depressed?

    Only qualified healthcare professionals, such as doctors or mental health professionals, can diagnose accurately. If you suspect you may be experiencing clinical depression or any other mental health concern, I encourage you to contact a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose you correctly, and recommend appropriate treatment options. Seeking professional help is crucial for receiving the necessary support and guidance to address your concerns effectively.

  3. Is clinical depression real?

    Major depressive disorder vs clinical depression is similar. Clinical depression, or major depressive disorder (MDD), is a recognized medical condition. It is a severe mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of pleasure in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and sometimes thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

  4. Why is it important to identify and treat clinical depression?

    It is crucial because untreated depression can lead to a range of complications. It can increase the risk of developing or exacerbating other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders or substance abuse. Additionally, depression has been associated with a higher risk of specific physical health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and immune system dysfunction. Identifying and treating depression can help minimize these potential complications.

  5. Can clinical depression be cured?

    Clinical depression is a treatable condition, but it is not typically considered a curable disorder in the same way a bacterial infection can be cured with antibiotics, for example. Instead, the goal of treatment is often focused on managing clinically depressed symptoms, reducing the frequency and intensity of depressive episodes, and improving the overall quality of life.

  6. How long does clinical depression last?

    The duration of clinical depression can vary from person to person. It can be an episodic condition characterized by recurrent episodes of depression separated by periods of remission, or it can be a chronic condition with persistent symptoms. A major depressive episode typically lasts at least two weeks, according to diagnostic criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). During this period, individuals experience a combination of depressive symptoms, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, alterations in appetite or weight, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and sometimes thoughts of death or suicide.

  7. What does it mean to be clinically depressed?

    Being clinically depressed means experiencing persistent and intense sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest or pleasure in most activities. It refers to a specific mental health condition known as major depressive disorder. To be diagnosed with clinical depression, an individual typically needs to experience a set of symptoms for a significant period (at least two weeks) and meet specific diagnostic criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

  8. What is the difference between depression and clinical depression?

    Depression is a broad term that describes a range of emotional and psychological states characterized by sadness, low mood, or loss of interest in activities. It is a common human experience and can be a normal response to challenging life events or circumstances. Clinical depression, on the other hand, refers to a specific mental health condition known as major depressive disorder (MDD). It is a more severe and persistent type of depression that meets specific diagnostic criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Clinical depression typically involves a collection of symptoms that significantly impact a person’s daily life and functioning.

  9. Does clinical depression go away?

    Clinical depression is a treatable condition. With appropriate treatment and support, many individuals with clinical depression can experience significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life. However, clinical depression is typically a chronic condition that may recur throughout a person’s life. While some individuals may experience a complete remission of symptoms and go on to live without a recurrence of depression, others may have recurrent episodes or experience a more chronic form of depression.

  10. How is clinical depression diagnosed?

    Clinical depression is diagnosed through a comprehensive assessment by a qualified healthcare professional, typically a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health provider.

A Short Video About Major Depressive Disorder Statistics

If you or someone you’re concerned with is experiencing symptoms of clinical depression, it’s crucial to seek help from a healthcare professional or a mental health provider. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and create an individualized treatment plan to help manage the condition.

Clinical Depression Video Transcript

In the last 2 years, more people in the USA have been affected by the #Depression.

Sharing inspiration and proper information is a top priority to send a powerful message: “You can overcome depression” with help.

We Level Up encourages you or a loved one to feel empowered. To improve, learn, and share what works for you and others. It is up to all of us to break through the Taboo of asking & getting mental health help for anyone that suffers from Depression.

There are many resources available to help you better manage your mental health. Your first step should be to reach out to your physician or a mental health professional for a thorough evaluation. Additionally, you may want to consider joining a support group, such as a 12-step program, or an online support community to help you connect with others facing similar challenges. In addition, many self-help techniques are available, such as mindfulness, relaxation, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Support and understanding from your friends and family can also be tremendously beneficial in helping you manage your depression. It can be helpful to speak openly with them about how you’re feeling and the challenges you’re facing. Additionally, it can be useful to identify activities and people that positively influence your mental health and seek them out whenever you feel overwhelmed by depression.

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[8] About Mental Health (cdc.gov)

[9] COMMON MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS – Common Mental Health Disorders – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

[10] InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Treatments for depression. [Updated 2020 Jun 18]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279282/