Am I depressed or am I sad?
Before we begin to discuss the clinical definition of major depressive disorder, it is important to note that depression is not the same as sadness or loneliness. On one hand, feeling sad for a short period of time after a disappointment is likely a normal human response. Onthe other hand, think of depression symptoms as a very long period of sadness that significantly affects a person’s life.
Major depressive disorder
In the past month, have you had little to no interest in activities? Have you been feeling hopeless? Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder defined as having two weeks of 5 out of 9 of the following symptoms present most of the day or nearly every day:
- Insomnia or Hypersomnia
- Recurrent thought of death or suicidal thoughts
- Loss of pleasure or interest
- Excessive or inappropriate guilt, or feelings of worthlessness
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Poor concentration
- Appetite change resulting in greater than 5% weight change in 1 month
- Retardation or agitation
According to national network of depression centers, suicide is the second leading cause death for ages 15-44. If you or anyone you know are in a crisis, please call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Please visit our blog post “Suicide in the Bible: Elijah the prophet with suicidal thoughts.”
Additional depressive disorders
- Persistent depressive disorder: depressed mood more days than not for at least 2 years.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: Having one or more symptoms of depressed mood, anxiety, irritability, lability in most menstrual cycles during the past year. Present during the final week, improved within a few days after the onset of menses and becomes minimal or absent in the week post menses. Appetite or sleep change can be present as well as loss of interest, difficulty concentrating and easily fatigued.
- Adjustment disorder with depressed mood: Depressive symptoms that develop within 3 months of a stressor. Symptoms do not persist for more than 6 moths after the stressor have resolved.
Who is at risk of depression?
According to research studies, genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors contribute to depression. Depression can also be caused by or is secondary to medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, cancer, diabetes, Parkinson disease, drug use or medications and vitamin deficiencies. To diagnose with a major depressive disorder, your doctor will conduct a physical exam and order special labs/blood tests to identify possible causes of mood disorders.
Treatment of depression symptoms
According to the National Network of Depression Centers, two thirds of people with depression do not actively seek nor receive proper treatment However, 80% of those treated with depression show improvement within four to six weeks. One of the first line of treatments for major depressive disorder is psychotherapy. For example, behavioral, cognitive, and interpersonal therapies can be quite helpful. Medications are also first line treatments for depression. A variety of antidepressants are used to treat depression symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are most commonly known. These medications allow our brain to properly use chemicals that are responsible for mood and stress. The chemical is called serotonin. If there is no improvement with medication and psychotherapy, the most effective treatment called electroconvulsive therapy is used.
Christians with major depressive disorders
Have you been diagnosed with depression or experience symptoms of depressed mood?
Psalm 34:18 “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted. He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”
Depression symptoms can occur at any age, and you should not feel ashamed. It is documented throughout the bible believers such as David, Elijah, Jonah, and Job, just to name a few, who experienced depression and/or suicidal thoughts. What is comforting about the stories written about the prominent figures is the persistent presence of God and the strength and victory received to defeat depression.
If you have some time today, please visit our blog post “Suicide in the Bible: Elijah the prophet with suicidal thoughts.” In addition, read the book of Psalms, Kings, Jonah or Job. Write down what stood out for you the most and what lessons you could incorporate in your life to get back to doing what you love. God has NOT forgotten about you. Life is difficult and there will be trials and tribulations. However, God has promised to never leave your side and will always be with you. You are not doing life alone. Do not give up!
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Isaiah 41:10 “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God, I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Are you looking for a bible app plan? Please visit our list of bible app plans on depression below!
Check out our other blog posts to learn more about living a mentally healthy life as a Christian.
Visit our mental health resources tab for more information on therapy and how to find a therapist.
