Major depressive episode
A major depressive episode (MDE) is a period characterized by symptoms of major depressive disorder. Those affected primarily exhibit a depressive mood for at least two weeks or more, and a loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities. Other symptoms can include feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, anxiety, worthlessness, guilt, irritability, changes in appetite, difficulties in concentration, difficulties remembering details, making decisions, and thoughts of suicide. Insomnia or hypersomnia and aches, pains, or digestive problems that are resistant to treatment may also be present.
| Major depressive episode | |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Psychiatry |
| Symptoms | Low mood; loss of interest/pleasure; difficulty with concentration; fatigue; excessive guilt; thoughts of death/suicide |
| Complications | Self-harm; suicide; difficulty functioning in everyday life |
| Duration | 3 months |
| Risk factors | Family history; acute stresses (major life changes, adverse life experiences); chronic health problems |
| Diagnostic method | Based on symptoms as outlined in the DSM-5 |
| Differential diagnosis | Any psychotic disorders; Adjustment disorder; Anxiety disorder; Bipolar disorder; Gender dysphoria; Personality disorder; Substance use disorder |
| Treatment | Psychotherapy; antidepressant medication |
| Medication | Antidepressants |
Although the exact origin of depression is unclear, it is believed to involve biological, psychological, and social aspects. Socioeconomic status, life experience, genetics, and personality traits are believed to be factors in the development of depression and may represent an increased risk of developing a major depressive episode.
In the United States and Canada, the costs associated with major depression are comparable to those related to heart disease, diabetes, and back problems and are greater than the costs of hypertension. According to the Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, there is a direct correlation between a major depressive episode and unemployment.
Treatments for a major depressive episode include psychotherapy and antidepressants, although in more severe cases, hospitalization or intensive outpatient treatment may be required.