Unipolar Depression, Definition, Symptoms, & Treatment

Depression Statistics

One of the most prevalent mental diseases in the US is major depression. Some people with serious depression may experience substantial impairments that impede or restrict their capacity to engage in important life activities.

---

---

Diagnosis of Unipolar Depression

To diagnose unipolar depression, also called major depressive disorder (MDD), a qualified healthcare professional must do a full evaluation. Here’s a quick look at how unipolar depression is diagnosed:

• Initial assessment: The healthcare provider will do an initial assessment to find out about the person’s symptoms, medical history, family history of mental health problems, and any possible medical or psychiatric conditions that may be causing them.
• Diagnostic criteria: The healthcare provider will look at the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) from the American Psychiatric Association to see if the person meets the criteria for a diagnosis of major depressive disorder.
• Evaluation of symptoms: The healthcare provider will check for the presence and severity of depressive symptoms, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in appetite or weight, sleep problems, fatigue, trouble concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and frequent thoughts of death or suicide. The symptoms should have been there for at least two weeks, making it hard for the person to go about their daily life.
• Differential diagnosis: To ensure a correct diagnosis of unipolar depression, the healthcare provider will rule out other possible causes, such as medical conditions, drug use, or other psychiatric disorders.
• Duration and recurrence: The healthcare provider will examine how long depressive episodes last and how often they happen. For a person to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, they must have either one major depressive episode or several episodes over a certain amount of time.
• Collaboration and assessment tools: Sometimes, doctors will use extra assessment tools, like questionnaires or rating scales, to help with the diagnosis and figure out how bad the depressive symptoms are.

Causes of Unipolar Depression

Unipolar depression, or major depressive disorder (MDD), is a complex condition influenced by various factors. The causes of unipolar depression are multifactorial and can involve a combination of biological, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Here are some factors that may contribute to the development of unipolar depression:

• Biological factors: Imbalances in certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, play a role in regulating mood. Changes or disruptions in these brain chemicals can contribute to depression.
• Genetic predisposition: A family history of depression increases the likelihood of developing unipolar depression. There is evidence of a genetic component, although specific genes associated with depression have not been definitively identified.
• Environmental factors: Stressful life events, such as trauma, losing a loved one, relationship difficulties, financial problems, or significant life changes, can trigger or exacerbate depressive symptoms.
• Childhood experiences: Adverse childhood experiences, such as abuse, neglect, or early loss, may increase the vulnerability to developing depression later in life.
• Medical conditions: Certain conditions, such as chronic pain, thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, or neurological conditions, can contribute to depression.
• Substance abuse: Substance abuse or dependence can increase the risk of developing depression. Substance use alters brain chemistry and can contribute to depressive symptoms.
• Psychological factors: Negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem, excessive self-criticism, or a history of anxiety disorders can contribute to depression.

Which therapy is helpful in treating unipolar depression?

Several types of therapy have been shown to help treat unipolar depression, also called “major depressive disorder.” The type of therapy someone chooses depends on their own preferences, how bad their symptoms are, and how skilled the therapist is. Here are some of the most common treatments for unipolar depression:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): The main goal of CBT is to find and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that make someone feel depressed. It helps people develop better ways to deal with problems and think more positively and realistically.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): IPT focuses on improving relationships with other people and dealing with specific events or conflicts in life that may cause depression. It aims to improve people’s ability to talk to each other, fix relationship problems, and work on social and emotional support systems.
• Psychodynamic therapy looks at how unconscious thoughts, past events, and unresolved conflicts affect feelings and actions in the present. It aims to make people aware of deeper problems and help them heal through self-reflection and insight.
• Behavioral Activation (BA): BA aims to get people to do more enjoyable and rewarding activities, which is the opposite of what people often do when they are depressed. It helps people feel happy and successful again, boosting their mood and motivation.
• Mindfulness-based therapies, like Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), focus on being in the moment and learning to accept your thoughts and feelings. These methods can help people deal with their depressive symptoms and lessen the effects of their negative thoughts.

Supportive therapy gives people a safe, caring place to talk about their feelings and get emotional support. It can help you deal with stress, feel better about yourself, and improve your ability to deal with problems.

Popular Unipolar Depression FAQs

Coping with Depression Informative Video

Coping with depression can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to help manage your symptoms. Exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep can help improve your mood. Talking to a therapist can also be beneficial as they can provide additional resources and help you process your thoughts and feelings. Lastly, knowing what triggers your depressive episodes can help you better prepare for them.