Clinical depression, commonly known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a mental health illness characterized by a persistently low or depressed mood as well as a loss of interest in formerly enjoyable activities. Clinical depression can also impair your sleep, appetite, and capacity to think effectively. For a diagnosis, these symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.
Clinical depression is a persistent illness that usually manifests itself in periods that last many weeks or months. You will almost certainly have more than one episode in your lifetime. This is distinct from chronic depressive disorder, which is defined as mild to moderate depression lasting at least two years.
Major depressive disorder has various subcategories. Among the most prevalent subtypes are:
Seasonal affective disorder (seasonal depression) is a type of seasonal depression.
Postpartum depression and prenatal depression
Depression that is not ordinary.
Clinical depression is frequently accompanied by other mental health issues, such as:
Dual diagnosis of substance use disorder
Anxiety disorder.
Anxiety about social situations.
OCD is an obsessive-compulsive disorder