Major Depressive Disorder

If you suffer from extreme or ongoing sadness and you feel hopeless, see the experts at Spectrum Behavioral Health in New Lenox and Hinsdale, Illinois. The highly trained psychiatry team diagnoses and treats major depressive disorder (MDD) to help you rediscover a passion for life. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation at Spectrum Behavioral Health today by phone or online.

What is major depressive disorder?

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder characterized by persistent sad feelings and loss of interest in favorite activities. Your sadness can be severe, debilitating, and long-lasting when left untreated. Many people feel sad now and then, but depression is more serious and may cause numerous complications.

Seek treatment at the first sign of MDD.

What are the symptoms of major depressive disorder?

Depression can cause feelings of:

• Worthlessness
• Hopelessness
• Helplessness
• Guilt
• Shame
• Loss of interest in favorite things
• Ongoing sadness
• Extreme sad feelings
• Problems concentrating
• Difficulty sleeping
• Thoughts of suicide (suicidal ideation)
• Tearfulness
• Angry outbursts
• Mood swings
• Agitation
• Relationship challenges
• Problems at work or school

You can also experience headaches, other physical aches and pains, and substance misuse because of major depressive disorder.

What increases the risk of major depressive disorder?

Risk factors for major depressive disorder include:

• Loss of a loved one
• Brain chemistry changes
• Family history of depression or other mood disorders
• Hormone fluctuations
• Being dependent on others
• Low self-esteem
• Lack of a solid social support network
• Being in the LGBTQIA+ community
• Traumatic life events
• Ongoing stress
• Divorce
• Job loss
• Financial challenges
• Substance misuse
• History of mental health disorders
• Carrying excess weight

Depression can also be caused by taking certain medications or having a severe or chronic medical condition.

How is major depressive disorder diagnosed?

The Spectrum Behavioral Health team completes a psychiatric evaluation to determine if you have MDD or another mental health concern. During the assessment, they address your mood, emotions, lifestyle, thoughts, medication, and more. Your psychiatrist then determines which mental health treatment is best for you.

How is major depressive disorder treated?

Treating MDD at Spectrum Behavioral Health involves:

• In-person or virtual psychotherapy
• Medication management
• Lifestyle changes
• Combinations of treatments tailored to your unique needs

The practice offers cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy, and other therapies that help improve your mood and quality of life. Your provider also manages your medications to ensure an exceptional, long-lasting outcome.

It’s vital to avoid using harmful substances, minimize stress, eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy social support network.

Schedule an in-person or virtual evaluation today at Spectrum Behavioral Health by phone or online to determine if you have major depressive disorder.