Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder that causes the following symptoms:
 
– Sadness
– Hopelessness
– Moodiness
– Irritability
– Sleeping too little or too much
– Weight gain or loss
– Change in appetite
– Brain fog
– Constant fatigue and loss of energy
– Feelings of guilt and self-loathing
– Impulsive and reckless behavior
 
Depression can be caused by genetics, trauma, chronic illness, medications, age, and substance abuse.

Major Depressive Disorder
Sometimes referred to as clinical depression, MDD is the most common type of depression that causes symptoms like:
– Angry outbursts
– Irritability
– Anxiety
– Feelings of worthlessness
– Brain fog
– Slowed thinking
– Slow body movements
– Trouble concentrating
– Changes in sleep
– Loss of interest in life
 
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression can happen after childbirth. Some symptoms of postpartum depression include:
– Mood swings
– Anxiety
– Emptiness
– Crying spells
 
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Have you been depressed for many years? At some points, your symptoms may be less severe but are still present to some extent? This is what doctors call persistent depressive disorder. To overcome PDD you need a strong support system that includes a doctor and psychologist as well as from loved ones.
 
Seasonal Affective Disorder
SAD, or seasonal affective disorder, is brought on by the cold, dark, and blue winter months. During this time, you may find yourself gaining weight, feeling hopeless, struggling with school or work, and increasing your sleep. Once the days get longer and the sun comes out, this depression disappears.
 
Psychotic Depression
Symptoms of psychotic depression include:
 
– Hallucinations
– Delusions
– Sadness
– Suicidal tendencies
– Hearing things
 
Patients with psychotic depression will potentially be treated with either an antipsychotic medication or an antidepressant medication.

Depression is diagnosed by doctors, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Typically, it can be diagnosed with a couple of questionnaires. Here are the criteria for depression, often abbreviated as SIGECAPs:
 
S – Sadness (emptiness, hopelessness)
S – Sleep disturbance (hyper insomnia, insomnia)
I – Interest reduced (anhedonia)
G – Guilt and self-blame
E – Energy loss and fatigue
C – Concentration problems
A – Appetite changes and weight fluctuation
P – Psychomotor changes
S – Suicidal thoughts

Those who suffer from major depressive disorder can benefit from antidepressants, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and other forms of psychotherapy. Antidepressants take about a month to work and may have some side effects. Your doctor or psychiatrist can assist you in finding the perfect medication for you. This may take a bit of trial and error but once you’ve adjusted, you will begin to see many positive changes.
 
Our team of highly experienced medical staff would love to help you through this time and give you the emotional and medical support you need! Please call our clinic to schedule an appointment with specialized mental health professional. We serve patients from Golden Valley MN, Minneapolis MN, Brooklyn Park MN, Plymouth MN, Saint Louis Park MN, Hopkins, MN, and surrounding areas.
 
If you need emergent care, please go to a hospital or call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You can also call your therapist, a loved one, or even a spiritual leader if you’re struggling with suicidal ideation.