Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent mental health disorder that causes episodes of depression. There are more than 3 million cases of MDD reported per year and is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide (https://www.mayoclinic.org/depression).
Symptoms of MDD may include:
- Depressed mood (sad, empty, hopeless)
- Diminished interest or pleasure in activities (anhedonia)
- Significant weight loss, weight gain, or decrease/increase in appetite
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Restlessness
- Fatigue or loss of energy (sluggishness)
- Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
- Feeling pessimistic, despondent, numb, dread, or tense
- Uncontrollable crying
