Name of the Condition

• Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate
• Also known as clinical depression or recurrent depressive disorder.

Summary

Major depressive disorder, recurrent, moderate, is a mental health condition characterized by multiple episodes of depression that are moderate in severity. It significantly impacts a person's mood, behavior, and physical health, interfering with daily functioning.

Causes

The exact cause of major depressive disorder is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Imbalances in brain chemistry and stress can also contribute to the condition.

Risk Factors

• Family history of depression or other mental illnesses
• Personal history of depression or other mental health disorders
• Significant life changes, trauma, or stress
• Substance abuse
• Certain medical conditions or medications

Symptoms

• Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, which may include a clinical interview, psychological assessments, and self-reported questionnaires. There are no specific laboratory tests for diagnosing depression.

Treatment Options

• Medications: Antidepressants (such as SSRIs or SNRIs) can help balance brain chemicals, reducing symptoms.
• Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT) provides tools to manage thoughts and behaviors.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, nutrition, and good sleep hygiene can support treatment.
• Severe cases: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) might be considered if other treatments have not been effective.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With proper treatment, many people with moderate major depressive disorder experience significant improvements. Ongoing therapy and regular check-ups with healthcare providers are essential to monitor progress and prevent relapse.

Complications

If untreated, major depressive disorder can lead to severe complications such as chronic pain, substance abuse, decreased productivity, relationship problems, and increased risk of suicide.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Develop and maintain a strong social support network
• Regular physical activity and healthy diet
• Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga
• Avoiding alcohol or drug use

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent and worsening symptoms despite self-care efforts
• Inability to perform daily activities or responsibilities
• Thoughts of harming oneself or others

Additional Resources

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org
• American Psychological Association: apa.org
• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: DBSA

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the diagnosis explicitly states "recurrent" and "moderate" to accurately code as F33.1.
• Verify whether any co-existing conditions or comorbidities should also be coded.
• Be cautious not to confuse with single episode depression codes or other severities.