Assessment and management of major depressive disorder in adults

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental health condition that significantly impacts an individual's quality of life and functioning. Accurate diagnosis and effective management are crucial to lessen its effects. This article provides an overview of the clinical assessment of MDD in adults, including diagnostic criteria, screening tools, and differential diagnosis. It also reviews traditional and emerging management strategies including pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, and esketamine. Insights from the STAR∗D study, which shed light on the complexities of treating depression, are discussed to emphasize the importance of personalized treatment approaches.