Understanding the Difference Between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Understanding the Difference Between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

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The dark cloud of depression affects millions of individuals every single day. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 280 million people face a depressive disorder worldwide. There are several forms of depression, some of which appear very similar and can be challenging to differentiate from one another.

One example of this is the comparison between major depressive disorder (MDD) and persistent depressive disorder (PDD). A proper diagnosis is needed in order to obtain the correct treatment plan for recovery. MDD and PDD have very similar symptoms. However, there are a few distinct qualities that set the two apart from each other.

Depressive Disorder Symptoms

The general symptoms of depressive disorders can seriously harm an individual’s mind and body. If ignored, depression of any kind can result in further health problems. Below are a few of the most common effects that depression can inflict:

  • Profound, ongoing feelings of sorrow
  • Various body aches and unexplained pains
  • Gaining or losing weight excessively
  • Fits of anger even over the smallest of inconveniences
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed hobbies/activities
  • An increase in the risk of suicidal behaviors/attempts
  • Significant disruption/interference in sleep

MDD vs. PDD

According to the American Psychiatric Association, MDD is defined as “a medical illness that affects how you feel, think and behave causing persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.” The symptoms involved in MDD are generally severe, lasting about two weeks. They tend to interfere with daily life and the ability to function normally. This disorder has a global prevalence of 28.2% among individuals with depression.

PDD, on the other hand, has a lifetime prevalence of 2.5% and shares many of the symptoms of MDD. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), PDD is “characterized by chronic low-level depression that is not as severe but may be longer lasting than, major depressive disorder.” While the effects of MDD generally last about two weeks, PDD symptoms typically last about two years. The time frame and severity level of symptoms are the main differentiating factors for the two disorders.

Diagnosing a Depressive Disorder

The diagnosis process for any mental health disorder begins with an initial intake. This may include an overall physical health check. The next step will be a psychiatric evaluation. Your psychologist will asses your overall mental health and see what criteria you meet using the DSM-5 as a guide. Afterward, you will meet with a therapist to go over treatment options that fit your diagnosis.

Obtaining a diagnosis doesn’t mean you are being labeled. It is merely a useful tool to help find the correct combination of treatments that will work best for you and your individual needs. Every person is unique, and what works for one individual may not necessarily work for you. The diagnosis process is essential to getting the right care and achieving a successful outcome.

What Treatment Looks Like

No matter what type of depressive disorder a person may have, depression is easily treated once a diagnosis has been established. The most effective starting point for any mental health disorder is psychotherapy (or talk therapy). A subbranch of psychotherapy called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used in treating depression.

CBT takes place in a safe, comfortable environment with a therapist and acts as a problem-solving educational tool for its participants. The central focus of CBT is learning how to address issues in real-time. Its underlining theory, simply put, is how people mentally perceive circumstances impacts how they feel on an emotional level. By gradually learning to alter your point of view, you will be able to harness and control your own happiness.

Medication is another common form of treatment for depressive disorders like MDD and PDD. When paired with therapy, antidepressants have been shown to have a positive impact on the final outcome of depressive disorder cases. The need for medication is on a case-to-case basis, but your doctor can help you determine whether it is right for you.

Don’t Just Survive – Thrive

Navigating through the thick blanket of darkness that is depression can feel like wading through rough waters. You may end up at a point where you are merely surviving. However, you deserve much more than that. Depression isn’t who you are. It doesn’t define you. Maybe you’re sitting there right now wondering if treatment for depressive disorders really works. Well, it does.

If you or someone you know are facing depression, you have options. Therapy and medication can change the course you are currently on. Much like the bright seaside sunrise that illuminates the sky, conquering depression will bring back the light that you’re missing. Without a depressive disorder blocking your path, you will thrive in a whole new way.

Finding the light within the darker days of a depressive disorder can seem like an impossible feat. Depression can leave you feeling robbed of your joy and inner peace. This challenge you face isn’t your future. At Alter Behavioral Health, we can help guide you through the obstacles of depression. You can conquer the cloud of darkness that follows you. Let us shine the light that you’ve been missing. We know how you feel and have made it our mission to help people like you thrive in a new life of laughter and happiness. Call us today at (866) 691-4386 for more information and to get started on the bright path to the joy that you deserve.

Different Treatment Options to Help a Loved One Overcome Trauma

Different Treatment Options to Help a Loved One Overcome Trauma

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Trauma can be very difficult to live with. When left untreated, it generally results in anxiety and fear. These responses to trauma are expected from the body. While they are typical, the effects of trauma should not be ignored. When left untreated, the associated anxiety, fear, and stress can escalate drastically, taking over a person’s life. 

Seeking help is essential to achieving a healthy recovery. Treatment addresses the numerous concerns that accompany trauma, helping to promote positive mental health habits and alleviate anxiousness and fearfulness. Evaluating the options available to your loved one facing the effects of trauma can help you to make the best choice in how to help. 

Therapy for Trauma

Psychotherapy is widely used for treating several mental health concerns. The American Psychological Association (APA) describes the psychotherapy process as “a psychologist providing a supportive environment that allows patients to talk openly with someone objective, neutral, and nonjudgmental.” Generally, this therapy is one-on-one but sometimes involves couples, families, and groups.

When treating trauma, the most common method is a subbranch of psychotherapy called trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). This therapy method is evidence-based and geared toward people dealing with trauma and trauma-related conditions. TF-CBT is highly effective in combatting the effects of trauma and ultimately achieving recovery. 

Medication Options

Treating trauma is best done with therapy. However, the side effects of trauma can be effectively treated with medication. Anxiety and fear from enduring trauma or trauma-related conditions can be difficult to handle. Prescription medications can assist in relieving these symptoms. In addition to fear and anxiety, depression and insomnia are common side effects of trauma.

Prescribed drugs may include antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs), anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids. SSRIs assist depressive symptoms by boosting serotonin levels, which helps regulate mood and appetite, and in some individuals, can promote sleep. In addition to antidepressants, anti-anxiety prescriptions help alleviate the effects of trauma-induced fear and anxiety, and sleep aids help to combat insomnia. 

Trauma Recovery Programs

Therapy and medication are both found in any trauma treatment plan. When helping your loved one get through such a difficult time in their life, understanding the options available is key to choosing the best fit. Programs for trauma-centered care are geared specifically to help people overcome trauma and trauma-related conditions. These come in two options, as listed below.

Inpatient Programs

Inpatient programs are also referred to as residential treatment. In residential programs, individuals receive professional treatment available at all hours of the day. These programs take place in a home-like residential setting making individuals feel comfortable and welcome. Camaraderie is another great aspect of inpatient programs due to living amongst other individuals with similar stories.

In severe trauma cases, inpatient programs are often essential for successful recovery. The ability to focus solely on healing and mental health is a critical factor in residential care. Individuals can detach from their real-life problems and concerns for optimal results. This distinguishing factor makes inpatient treatment a perfect match for severe cases of trauma.

Outpatient Programs

If you feel like residential care isn’t a good fit for your loved one, outpatient programs are also an option. These programs are just as effective for treating trauma and its related conditions, except without the home-like setting. They consist of all of the same methods (therapies and medications) and provide significantly more flexibility than inpatient programs. 

Outpatient programs are an excellent choice if your loved one has responsibilities and work that cannot be set aside for residential treatment. These programs give individuals full flexibility to maintain employment duties, care for tasks at home, and any other life responsibilities. If your loved one needs flexible options in their treatment plan, then an outpatient program can help. 

When to Step In

Watching someone, you care deeply for going through something as difficult and life-altering as trauma is hard. Knowing how to help or even when to help can be challenging. Life in the aftermath of trauma isn’t easy for anyone. You can help save a life by guiding your loved one to treatment so that they can properly manage and cope with the effects of the trauma they currently face. 

There is a beautiful life ahead of them where family functions and outings can become enjoyable again. Where they smile like they used to and can truly enjoy all that life has to offer. A person who goes through trauma doesn’t stop living afterward. They have an opportunity for metamorphosis. 

This rainy season is only the beginning of a big bright future. After treatment, your loved one will shed their cacoon, spread their wings, and fly as a new, even more, beautiful being. This transformation starts with one simple step. Help your loved one by connecting them with a facility that cares and specializes in trauma-related conditions. 

Watching someone near and dear to your heart struggle with the challenges of trauma is heartbreaking. There are things you can do to help, though. At Alter Behavioral Health, we specialize in trauma and trauma-related conditions. We help people recover from trauma and thrive in the ways they were always meant to. Connect with us, and we can help guide your loved one down the right path that leads to recovery and joy. Positive mental health is essential to achieving a fulfilled, happy life free of the effects of trauma. Call us today at (866) 691-4386 for more information and to get your loved one started on their journey to healing from trauma.