Depression Learning

Major Depression

Major depression is the most severe type of depression, it is also known as clinical depression. The symptoms of depression are severe and they are chronic. A major depression comes as a result of one single traumatizing event such as a death of a love one or can be a result of a host of events that have happened over time. A major depression does not have to be sudden it can build up over time when the person has difficulty dealing with the problems of life. In this case it doesn’t seem to be triggered by a major life crises such a build up of everything. On the other hand, less severe symptoms which continue for a long period of time is known as Dysthymic Disorder and any time a crisis occurs the symptoms of depression intensify and later return to their usually levels after the crisis is over or has been resolved.

It is possible that a person may only experience a major depression once in their lifetime, people having this condition are not always prone to having more major depressions. This is the major difference, beside symptom intensity, with Dysthymic Disorder, which is a chronic depressive disorder. Or, in recurrent depression, a major depression can occur more than once over a lifetime, but only if a major situation occurs.

The nature nurture debate is still an issue with depression. Are the reasons for depression because of environmental factors such as death of a love one, divorce, loss of job etc. or is it is because of what is called an endogenous depression? This form of depression is either genetic or due to an abnormality in the brain. However, many psychologists agree that a mixture of both brain chemistry, and external factors play a role in most depressions yet, there is no hard evidence to support the claim and so the concept remains but a theory at this point in time.

Endogenous depression can be used to describe the symptoms of individuals that seem not to respond well to current depression treatments, or sometimes the term is used to prescribe medication without any other type of therapy. However, people suffering from major depression are treated more successfully with medication and therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy. While medication will even out the brain chemistry, therapy deals with the emotions and provides therapeutic solutions, teaching better coping skills, stimulating motivation, and providing comfort and support.

The symptoms of major depression will include: a mood that is persistently sad, depressed, anxious, or is expressed as just an empty feeling. People suffering from major depression may also feel worthless, helpless, or they even experience intense feelings of guilt. There is a general hopelessness about the future, and these individuals often think that the future will bring just more of the same negative events they have already experienced in life. Individuals lack energy and complain of chronic fatigue and at the same time, they could be restless or irritable. Individuals with major depression can have memory loss, trouble sleeping or sleep too much. They may have a loss of appetite and recurring thoughts of death or suicidal ideas or actions. It is important for anyone who feels they may be experiencing a major depression to seek medical help.

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