Major depressive disorder (MDD) has been the center of dialogue lately due to recent suicide deaths by famous TV personalities. In less than three months, three deaths rocked the entertainment and fashion industry.
Avicii, a famed Swedish musician tragically took his own life on April 20th. And on June 5th, famous bag designer Kate Spade also ended her life. Those who were close to them are shocked and confused. As the world processed Kate Spade’s “untimely’ demise, grief poured once again with yet another suicide. Emmy-award winning host, Anthony Bourdain, hanged himself on June 8th. But, why? What drove the famous DJ, bag designer and celebrity chef to commit suicide?
People shared their own two cents and drew their conclusions. Everyone has his own theory to claim. Arguably however, everyone agreed that Avicii, Kate Spade, and Anthony Bourdain share one thing in common. They all struggled with depression. That is to say, all three fought their own demons.
Before I start, please note that “all views in this blog post do not intend to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. All information in this post is for general information purposes only.”
What is Major Depressive Disorder?
MDD is a mental illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act (American Psychiatric Association, 2017). To point out, MDD is not just being lonely and occasionally sad. MDD is an overwhelming feeling of sadness that lasts two weeks or longer.
To meet the criteria for MDD, five (or more) symptoms be present during the same 2-week period. Additionally, one of the symptoms is either (1) depressed mood or (2) loss of interest or pleasure (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Signs and Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder
(1) depressed mood most of the day, nearly everyday
(2) loss of interest on things previously enjoyed
(3) significant unintended weight loss or decreased appetite
(4) not sleeping or over-sleeping almost every day
(5) psychomotor retardation and agitation
(6) extreme fatigue or loss of energy
(7) feelings of guilt and worthlessness
(8) poor concentration
(9) recurrent thoughts of suicide.
Behavioral Signs of Suicide
While most suicidal people (not all) do not talk about feeling suicidal, their behaviors do. Common suicidal behaviors include oversleeping or not sleeping at all, social isolation, feeling hopeless about the future, making surprise visits, making goodbye phone calls, increase in substance abuse, giving away significant possessions, accessing deadly weapons, making reckless decisions, engaging in risky behaviors and talking about death more than the usual.
Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder
And if you or your loved ones suffer from severe depression and recurrent thoughts of suicide, seek professional and medical help immediately. Additionally, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.