Descriptions of Different Types of Depression
Depression is a complicated condition with many different symptoms and manifestations. Symptoms of depression can be so diverse that they can sometimes seem contradictory. And the various types of depression can also vary widely, depending on the underlying causes. For example, post partum depression, which affects women who have just given birth, is a very severe condition that can impact women with no history of mental illness or depression.
The first three conditions listed are considered distinct depressive disorders. They impair everyday function in normal individuals and can cause severe emotional distress and/or trauma. Additionally, these types of depression are not caused by another medical condition or by drugs, prescription or otherwise.
Manic Depression
If your depressive episodes are followed by periods of high energy, optimism and active behavior, you might actually be suffering from manic depression. This form of depression, which is now known in the medical community as bipolar disorder, can be characterized by mood swings between mania and depression, or may consist only of severe manic episodes. Manic behavior includes a decreased need for sleep; extreme energy levels; a compulsion to talk or “chatter;” an inflated sense of self importance; excessive moment; a focus on goal oriented activities (like school, or a sudden desire to paint the house); racing thoughts and being very easily distracted.
People experiencing a manic episode might also engage in unhealthy levels of pleasurable activity, such as seeking out intercourse at the expense of safety or going on shopping sprees. Extreme cases may include hallucinations or delusions, and may even require hospitalization.
Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is marked by depressive episodes that last most of the day every day for at least two weeks at a time. If a major depressive episode lasts for two years or more, it’s characterized as chronic depression. The two most notable symptoms of clinical depression include a depressed mood or attitude and/or a lack of interest in formerly pleasurable activities. In addition to these two major symptoms, at least four of the following symptoms must be present for a clinical depression diagnosis:
· Change in appetite or interest in food, leading to significant weight gain or loss
· Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
· Energy loss or fatigue
· Difficulty thinking, making decisions or concentrating
· Thinking about death by suicide, attempting suicide, or having a plan for attempting suicide
· Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
· Slowing down physically, or exhibiting excessive movement
Dysthymic Disorder
Also known as dysthymia, dysthymic disorder is characterized by a constant or nearly constant depressed mood that last for at least two years. It has many of the same symptoms as clinical depression, but does not generally include thoughts of suicide. This condition is regarded as a more persistent, but less dangerous or severe condition than clinical depression. The symptoms of dysthymic disorder typically do not occur for more than two months at a time, and only two symptoms need to be observed in order to make a diagnosis.
There are several other types of depression that have more concrete, distinct causes. These conditions include:
Post Partum Depression
This condition is characterized by major depression that follows the birth of a child. It begins usually within the first four weeks after having a baby, and can get much worse if it is left untreated.
While the direct causes of this condition are still under speculation, many medical professionals believe that hormonal changes, fatigue and a possible strain on marital relations are strong contributing factors.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder surfaces during a certain time of year, especially winter or autumn. This depression can be major, and is diagnosed when depressive episodes do not occur at any other time of the year for at least two years. This condition is typically more common in women than in men, and is more likely to affect those who live far from the equator.
Psychotic Depression
This condition is a form of major depression that also includes delusions, hallucinations or other psychotic symptoms. If you are hearing voices while depressed or experience paranoia or other false beliefs, you maybe suffering from psychotic depression.
Catatonic Depression
This form of major depression is rare, and may include loss of ability to react to your environment with voluntary movement; excessive purposeless movement; unwillingness to speak or a resistance to follow directions or suggestions; bizarre or involuntary movements or facial expressions; or involuntarily repeating the words or movements of others in a way that is meaningless or purposeless. If you have at least two of these symptoms, you may be suffering from catatonic depression.
Understanding which type of depression you’re experiencing is one of the most important steps to finding the right management plan. Remember that for every form of depression, there are a number of resources and support networks you can turn to for help.
About the Author
Leslie Silver is a freelance writer who writes about self improvement by seeking out depression help.
