University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository
Specialty
Psychiatry
Advisor
Dr. Thomas Colletti
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent and debilitating psychiatric condition that affects millions of adults in the United States each year. MDD is characterized by emotional, cognitive, and physical dysfunction due to the multifactorial etiology of depression that involves biological, psychological, and social determinants. These determinants influence genetic vulnerability, neurotransmitter imbalances, dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and structural changes in key regions of the brain that all contribute to the pathophysiology of depression. Diagnosis is made via established clinical criteria and supportive tools that assist in guiding treatment. In the outpatient setting, initial management involves psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy-usually serotonin agent, or both. Continued research into improved clinical strategies are essential to enhancing treatment outcomes and reduce the experienced burden of this disorder.
Recommended Citation
Bowman DM. A Comprehensive Review of Major Depressive Disorder: From Underlying Mechanisms to Outpatient Management. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2025; 7(3).
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