What are the differences between depression and major depressive disorder?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in activities I used to enjoy. I wonder if this could be depression or major depressive disorder. Can you explain the key differences between these conditions, and what are the common symptoms that I should be aware of to determine if I should seek professional help? Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query.

Sadness and loss of interest in activities are common whenever you face any psychological problem. The difference between depression and depressive disorder are as follows:

1. Depression is a state where you feel mild sadness and loss of interest and may involve crying out, feeling low, etc.

2. Depressive disorder is a state where the above-mentioned symptoms will last more than three weeks even if you try doing any relaxing activities but these would not seem to work.

This is the major symptom. If you experience the above symptom mentioned in the second point, then you need to visit a psychiatrist and then opt for counseling services from the counseling psychologist.

Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

Thank you.