Which of the following best describes MDD?

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is best described as a chronic mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. This condition is more than just everyday sadness or occasional mood fluctuations; it involves significant impairment in functioning over an extended period, often lasting weeks or months.

Individuals with MDD may experience a range of symptoms, including changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and difficulty concentrating. The chronic nature of MDD requires ongoing assessment and often long-term treatment approaches, such as psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both, to manage symptoms effectively.

Short-term fluctuations in mood are not sufficient to characterize MDD, as the disorder is defined by its duration and severity. Additionally, a condition with no symptoms or a positive mental state does not align with the criteria for MDD, as this disorder inherently involves significant psychological distress and disruption in emotional functioning.