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Major Depressive Disorder

Healing is possible

Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common, serious mood disorder that causes persistent sadness, loss of interest, and changes in thinking, sleep, and energy that interfere with daily life. Women experience MDD more often than men, influenced by hormonal changes, life stress, and social roles

Causes :

🧬 Biological

Changes in brain chemistry and neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, genetic vulnerability, and physical changes in brain circuits involved in mood.

🧪 Hormonal

Pregnancy, postpartum period, menstrual cycle, thyroid problems, and menopause can trigger or worsen depression in women.

🌐 Psychological & Social

Personality traits (low self‑esteem, high self‑criticism), trauma, abuse, grief, relationship conflict, financial stress, chronic illness, and lack of social support increase risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of major depressive disorder include:

Persistent sadness, emptiness, tearfulness, or hopelessness.
Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, including work, family roles, or hobbies.
Changes in appetite or weight (loss or gain) and sleep problems (insomnia or oversleeping).
Fatigue, low energy, slowed thinking or movements, or agitation and restlessness.
Feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or strong self‑criticism, with difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideas, or suicide attempts—this is a medical emergency and needs immediate help.

Lifestyle and rehab supports :

Regular activity, sleep hygiene, healthy diet, avoiding alcohol or drugs, and structured rehabilitation programs improve recovery and reduce relapse.

Support :

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 (VMWMH‑Focused)Peer and family support groups:

VMWMH offers free, peer‑led groups for people living with depression and separate groups for family members and caregivers, providing education, shared experience, and hope.

☎️ Helplines and crisis services:

VMWMH HelpLine and national crisis numbers connect individuals and families to information, local services, and immediate emotional support.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family education:

Programs like VMWMH Family‑to‑Family teach relatives how to understand depression, communicate effectively, support treatment, and care for their own well‑being.
Vadivu Memorial Women’s Mental Health Centre can highlight on its website that major depression is treatable, recovery is possible, and women are never alone when they reach out for professional care, peer connection, and family support.