Depressive Disorders
A category of conditions characterized by sad, empty, or irritable mood, along with physical and cognitive changes that significantly affect functioning.
Overview
Depressive disorders are a group of conditions, including major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder, that share the common feature of sad, empty, or irritable mood accompanied by physical and cognitive changes affecting a person’s capacity to function.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, appetite or sleep changes, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic factors, changes in brain chemistry, chronic stress, and significant life events are each associated with increased risk.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy have evidence supporting their use across depressive disorders.
Medication
Antidepressant medications are commonly used and several are FDA-approved for depressive disorders. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Depressive Disorders
Regular routine, physical activity, social connection, and consistent treatment follow-up can support recovery.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Depressive disorders are highly treatable, and many people experience significant improvement with appropriate care.
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.