In this episode of The Psych Studio Podcast, Dr. Tom Kiely, PhD, explores Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) through a clinical and scientific lens. Starting with the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, Dr. Kiely breaks down the symptoms and clinical presentation of MDD in clear, accessible language. He then reviews the prevalence rates of MDD in the United States, comparing them to other common psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

The episode also takes listeners on a guided tour of the neuroanatomy involved in depression, highlighting key brain regions like the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus—and how their interactions may contribute to the experience of depressive symptoms.

BONUS SEGMENT: Be sure to listen all the way to the end for a special bonus segment, where Dr. Kiely shares a simple but highly effective intervention for managing MDD—one that clinicians, clients, and curious minds alike will find both practical and powerful.

Whether you're a student, practitioner, or simply passionate about mental health, this episode delivers evidence-based insights with clarity and depth.

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Keywords

Major Depressive Disorder, Depression Symptoms, DSM-5, Mental Health, Neuroanatomy, Treatment Interventions, Emotional Well-being, Clinical Psychology, Anxiety Disorders, Mental Illness Prevalence, Psychotherapy, depression, mental health, major depressive disorder, symptoms, treatment, neuroanatomy, prevalence, emotional regulation, DBT, opposite action

Summary

In this inaugural episode of the Psych Studio, Dr. Tom Kiely delves into Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), exploring its symptoms, prevalence, and neuroanatomy. He distinguishes between normal sadness and clinical depression, emphasizing the significant impact of MDD on daily life. The episode also highlights the importance of seeking help and introduceseffective interventions, particularly the concept of 'opposite action' from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).

Takeaways

· Depression is a complex and prevalent mental health issue.

· Major depressive disorder requires specific criteria to be met.

· Symptoms include depressed mood and anhedonia.

· There are various types of depressive disorders, but major depressive disorder is the focus here.

· Prevalence rates for major depressive disorder are around 8.3%.

· Anxiety disorders have a higher prevalence rate than depression.

· Neuroanatomy studies show abnormalities in brain regions associated with depression.

·  The prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala are key areas affected by depression.

· Opposite action is a practical strategy to combat depressive urges.

· Seeking help and utilizing available resources is crucial for those struggling with depression.

Sound Bites

”Depression can be life-changing and lethal.”

”Depression is not the normal experience of feeling sad.”

”There is help out there for depression.”

”You need to know that there is help out there.”

”Depression is everywhere, it shows up a lot.”

”Major depressive disorder is neck and neck with specific phobia in terms of prevalence.”

”Acting on urges often keeps us stuck.”

”Opposite action is a powerful intervention for depression.”

”Your emotions are valid, but they shouldn't alwayswin.”

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Major Depressive Disorder

05:45 – Understanding Symptoms of Depression

14:13 – The DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder

25:51 – PES & 5150s

30:17 – Prevalence of Major Depressive Disorder

34:47 – Neuroanatomy of Depression

45:40 – BONUS: Opposite Action

50:33 – Outgoing message to the Psych Studio Podcast

RESOURCES

PSYCHOLOGY TODAY:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

SUICIDE AND CRISIS HOTLINE:

Dial 988

https://988lifeline.org/

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/rock-your-surfboard

License code: 343U0UCD8ZHJYTRD