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, aches, pains, or digestive problems that are resistant to treatment may also be present. Although the exact origin of depression is still not clear, it is believed to involve biological, psychological, and social aspects. Factors like socioeconomic status, life experience, genetics, and personality tendencies 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. Depressed mood is the most common symptom of a major depressive episode Either a depressive mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities for most of the day or every day must be present for a diagnosis of a major depressive episode. In addition, the person may experience one or more of the following emotions: sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, indifference, anxiety, tearfulness, pessimism, emotional numbness, or irritability. In children and adolescents, a depressed mood often presents as irritability.