There’s an important difference between a mild and transient down-in-the-dumps feeling, to which we are all subject, and major depressive disorder (MDD). MDD has been defined as ‘a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities consistently for at least a two-week period. This mood must represent a change from the person’s normal mood; social, occupational, educational or other important functioning must also be negatively impaired by the change in mood.’16 The World Health Organisation regards MDD as one of the greatest hazards to health and well-being over the coming
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