Depression
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — also known as depression — is a common and serious medical illness that can negatively affect how a person feels, thinks, and acts.
Depression can cause feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home. Depression is also treatable. It is important to consult with a physician and healthcare team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Risk Factors
Depression can affect anyone at any time and be triggered by various factors. About 8-10% of the Canadian adult population will experience depression during their lifetime.
- Gender
- Substance abuse
- Adolescence to mid-40s
- Family history of mental health disorders
- History of trauma (neglect/abuse)
- Sleep disorders
- Low socioeconomic status
- Long-term health problems
- Lack of social supports
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms vary for each individual experiencing MDD. Individuals with MDD may experience one or more symptoms which can be mild to severe. Understanding and monitoring signs and symptoms of MDD is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Sadness or Irritability (more common in teens)
- Loss of energy
- Mood disturbance (e.g. anxiety, restlessness)
- Low self-esteem
- Isolation and social withdrawal
- Trouble concentrating and memory difficulties
- Feelings of guilt
- Change in appetite (e.g. weight gain and weight loss)
- Feeling of worthlessness
- Change in sleep (e.g. sleeping too much or unable to sleep)
- Suicidal thoughts and gestures
- Unexplained pains and aches
Coping Card
The Coping Card is a tool you can use to manage feelings of distress. Watch the video below to learn more, and visit sunnybrook.ca/copingcard to download the Coping Card.
Treatments
Combinations of treatments are used to treat depressed patients for the therapeutic effect.
Reference
Depression. CAMH. (n.d.). https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/depression.
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2018, February 3). Depression (major depressive disorder). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007.
