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Understanding Depression | Major Depression | Persistent Depression | Bipolar Disorder | Depressive Psychosis | Perinatal Depression | PMDD | Seasonal Depression | Situational Depression | Atypical Depression | Identifying Your Type
Understanding depression
It’s common to experience sadness and grief, but if they persist for over two weeks and disrupt daily life, it might indicate depression. Symptoms vary, including deep sadness, appetite and sleep changes, lack of energy, and more.
Depression manifests differently for everyone, with some experiencing only a few symptoms. It’s essential to recognize when these symptoms significantly impact daily activities.
There are various types of depression, each with unique characteristics. Understanding these types can help identify and manage symptoms effectively.
Major depression
Major depression, also termed major depressive disorder or chronic depression, is a common and recurrent condition affecting millions of adults in the United States. Despite external factors like supportive relationships and fulfilling careers, major depression can persist, often with debilitating effects on daily life.
Individuals grappling with major depression typically encounter a myriad of symptoms, including persistent feelings of sadness, disruptions in sleep patterns, profound fatigue, alterations in appetite, unexplained bodily aches, loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities, challenges with concentration and decision-making, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, incessant worrying, and contemplations of self-harm or suicide. These symptoms can linger for weeks or even months, significantly impacting personal relationships and daily functioning.
Given the severity and persistence of major depression, seeking professional help for diagnosis and treatment is imperative. With proper intervention, individuals can navigate through the challenges posed by major depression and regain a sense of well-being and functionality in their lives.
Persistent depression
Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia or chronic depression, is a form of depression that persists for two years or more, often exerting a prolonged strain on relationships and daily functioning.
Symptoms of persistent depression encompass deep sadness or hopelessness, diminished self-esteem, decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, concentration difficulties, and social withdrawal. Despite its chronic nature, the severity of symptoms may fluctuate, with periods of remission followed by exacerbation. Some individuals with persistent depressive disorder may also experience episodes of major depression, a phenomenon known as double depression.
As persistent depression endures for years, affected individuals may begin to perceive their symptoms as an inherent part of their everyday life. Seeking professional help is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management of this enduring form of depression.
Manic depression, or bipolar disorder
Manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder, involves alternating periods of mania or hypomania and depression. Mania is characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, and risky behavior, while depression manifests as feelings of sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in activities.
During a manic phase, individuals may experience high energy, reduced need for sleep, irritability, racing thoughts, and grandiose thinking. They may also engage in risky behavior and feel euphoric. Bipolar I disorder requires at least one manic episode lasting 7 days or less if hospitalization is needed, often preceded or followed by a depressive episode.
Depressive episodes in bipolar disorder resemble those in major depression, featuring sadness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, concentration difficulties, decreased activity, and suicidal thoughts. Some individuals may experience hallucinations and delusions during severe episodes or mixed episodes, which involve symptoms of both mania and depression.
Hallucinations involve perceiving nonexistent sensations, while delusions are firmly held false beliefs. It’s essential to recognize and seek treatment for bipolar disorder, as there are various types requiring tailored interventions.
Depressive psychosis
In major depression, some individuals may encounter episodes of psychosis, marked by hallucinations and delusions. This condition is termed major depressive disorder with psychotic features or depressive psychosis. Physical symptoms like restlessness or slowed movements can also accompany depression with psychosis.
Perinatal depression
Perinatal depression, known as major depressive disorder with peripartum onset, arises during pregnancy or within four weeks post-childbirth. Often termed postpartum depression, it can manifest during pregnancy as well.
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and childbirth can impact the brain, leading to mood changes. Sleep deprivation and physical discomfort add to the challenges.
Symptoms include sadness, anxiety, anger, exhaustion, excessive worry about the baby’s well-being, and difficulty in self-care or caring for the newborn. Lack of support or previous depression increases the risk.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is an intensified form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), primarily affecting psychological well-being. Unlike PMS, PMDD’s psychological symptoms are notably severe, hindering daily life.
PMDD encompasses symptoms like cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, and headaches, alongside profound emotional distress, irritability, mood swings, and anxiety. These symptoms often peak post-ovulation, subsiding with menstruation.
Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle may contribute to PMDD. Despite its severity, PMDD is sometimes overlooked as severe PMS, yet its impact on mental health can be profound, warranting attention and support.
Seasonal depression
Seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), aligns with specific seasons, often peaking during winter. Symptoms, such as social withdrawal, increased sleep, and weight gain, typically emerge in fall, persisting through winter.
Suicidal thoughts may occur, worsening as the season progresses. With the arrival of spring and increased natural light, symptoms usually alleviate, suggesting a link between bodily rhythms and seasonal changes.
Situational depression
Situational depression, also known as adjustment disorder with depressed mood, resembles major depression but is triggered by specific events like loss, illness, divorce, or financial issues.
While it’s normal to feel sad during such events, situational depression occurs when emotions become overwhelming and disrupt daily life.
Symptoms, including frequent crying, sadness, anxiety, appetite changes, and fatigue, typically arise within 3 months of the event, often leading to social withdrawal and difficulty concentrating.
Atypical depression
Atypical depression, also termed major depressive disorder with atypical features, is a form of depression that temporarily improves in response to positive events. Despite its name, it’s not uncommon or less serious than other types.
One challenge with atypical depression is that symptoms may not always be apparent to others or even to the individual affected. It can occur alongside major or persistent depression.
Symptoms may include increased appetite, weight gain, disordered eating, excessive sleep or insomnia, physical heaviness in limbs, sensitivity to criticism, and various aches and pains.
How do I know which type I have?
If you suspect you’re experiencing any form of depression, seeking medical attention is crucial. While all types of depression can be treated, finding the right approach may require some patience.
If you’ve dealt with depression previously and recognize similar symptoms, reaching out to a therapist promptly is advisable.
For those unfamiliar with depression, starting with a primary care physician is a good step. Providing detailed information about your symptoms, their impact on daily life, any existing mental health conditions, family history, and medication usage can aid in diagnosis.
Though it may be uncomfortable, open communication with your doctor is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate referrals to mental health professionals.
Concerned about the expense of mental health services? Explore these five budget-friendly ways to access therapy.
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Understanding Depression | Major Depression | Persistent Depression | Bipolar Disorder | Depressive Psychosis | Perinatal Depression | PMDD | Seasonal Depression | Situational Depression | Atypical Depression | Identifying Your Type