The fortnight Chase – Types of Depression

Now that we are aware of the symptoms of depression, we may be able to prevent it. The next step is to know what are the different types of depression? Yes, they are all different. And we should be able to differentiate so as to cure it before it takes its darkest shape on us.

Types of Depression

• Major Depression

You might have this type if you feel depressed most of the time for most days of the week.

Some other symptoms you might have are:

• Loss of interest or pleasure in your activities
• Weight loss or gain
• Trouble getting to sleep or feeling sleepy during the day
• Feelings restless and agitated, or else very sluggish and slowed down physically or mentally
• feeling tired and without energy
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of suicide

Talk therapy can help. You’ll meet with a mental health specialist who will help you find ways to manage your depression.

Persistent Depressive Disorder

If you have depression that lasts for 2 years or longer, it’s called persistent depressive disorder. This term is used to describe two conditions previously known as dysthymia (low-grade persistent depression) and chronic major depression. The symptoms are almost the same as of major depression. You may be treated with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two.

Bipolar Disorder

Someone with bipolar disorder, which is also sometimes called “manic depression,” has mood episodes that range from extremes of high energy with an “up” mood to low “depressive” periods. Medication can help bring your mood swings under control. Whether you’re in a high or a low period, your doctor may suggest a mood stabilizer.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

The seasonal affective disorder is a period of major depression that most often happens during the winter months when the days grow short and you get less and less sunlight. It typically goes away in the spring and summer.

So a light therapy can cure. You’ll need to sit in front of a special bright light box for about 15-30 minutes each day.

Psychotic Depression

People with psychotic depression have the symptoms of major depression along with “psychotic” symptoms, such as:

• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
• Delusions (false beliefs)
• Paranoia (wrongly believing that others are trying to harm you)

Peripartum (Postpartum) Depression

Women who have major depression in the weeks and months after childbirth may have peripartum depression. Simply going for outings and meeting your old friends who also have babies help treat this depression. This kind of depression is like seasonal depression only and fades away with time.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Women with PMDD have depression and other symptoms at the start of their period. The symptoms include mood swings, irritability and fatigue also.

‘Situational’ Depression

You can have a depressed mood when you’re having trouble managing a stressful event in your life. These may include death in your family, a divorce, or losing your job. Psychotherapy can often help you get through a period of depression that’s related to a stressful situation.

Atypical Depression

It is considered to be a “specifier” that describes a pattern of depressive symptoms. If you have atypical depression, a positive event can temporarily improve your mood.

Other symptoms of atypical depression include: