Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder affects mood, interest, thinking, the body and daily functioning; it is not a character flaw or simply a difficult day.
Possible signs
The central experience may be depressed mood, emptiness or irritability, and/or a marked loss of interest or pleasure. Other signs can include changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, slowed or restless movement, poor concentration, guilt, hopelessness and thoughts of death or suicide.
Depression can also appear through physical complaints, withdrawal or reduced performance. Presentation varies with age, culture, health and personal circumstances; one online list cannot establish a diagnosis.
How assessment works
A professional considers symptom number, duration, severity and impact, alongside personal history and current stressors. Assessment also checks for bipolar-spectrum episodes, grief, trauma, substance use, medicines and medical conditions such as thyroid problems. This distinction matters because treatment choices differ.
Suicide risk is assessed directly and respectfully. Asking about suicidal thoughts does not create them; it helps determine the level of support and safety planning needed.
Treatment and support
Effective care may include psychotherapy, medication prescribed and monitored by a doctor, or a combination. The plan depends on severity, previous treatment, preference, physical health and co-occurring difficulties. Psychological approaches can help with withdrawal, harsh self-evaluation, hopelessness, relationship patterns and re-engagement with meaningful activity.
Sleep, movement, nutrition and social contact can support recovery, but are not substitutes for treatment when depression is clinically significant.