Different Types of
Depression
Major/ Clinical Depression
Major depression which is also known as clinical depression is one of the most common forms of depression. Major depression can have a severely detrimental effect on a person’s mental health and affect almost all different areas of their lives. Thi is a very serious condition and can drastically affect both the sufferers lives and those around them. For more information click on the clinical depression page of this website
Psychotic Depression
Sufferers of psychotic depression may hear and see imaginary things that do not exist in reality. This is known as hallucinations, The hallucinations of psychotic depression can be frightening and very distressing for the person suffering from this condition
Dysthymia / Chronic Depression
Dysthymia is also known as chronic depression. This is a condition that often suffers are not aware that they have – it is a persistent and constant depression that suffers live with most of their lives and they can become so used to it – that it simply becomes normality and suffered just think being sad and unhappy is part of who there are. Chronic depression is often not as severe is intensity as other forms such as major/clinical depression. Sufferers spend most of their life feeling low, sad and generally unhappy, although there may be short periods of time whereby suffers can feel ‘normal’ and not in quite such a low melancholic mood. The main characteristic of this condition is the time frame – chronic depression is ongoing and last for years…sometimes even a lifetime. In some cases, sufferers can also experience major depressive episodes on top of their chronic depression and this is known “double depression.” Chronic depression can be difficult to diagnose initially as is not as severe as clinical depression. However this condition can be treated, even if symptoms have gone unrecognized or untreated for years.
Manic Depression/ Bi Polar Disorder
This condition is also known as bi polar disorder and can be characterized by the drastic changing mood swings from depression to mania (a very high mood) which can happen very rapidly and without warning.
Episodes of depression alternate with manic episodes, which can include impulsive behaviour, hyperactivity, rapid speech, and little to no sleep. In the depressive state, sufferers often display similar symptoms as those found in clinical depression.
The various moods can switch, daily, weekly or even monthly. It is important to note that the treatment for manic depression is very different from that of major depression as medication such as anti depressants can make the condition worse. Manic depression is often treated with Lithium.
Episodes of depression alternate with manic episodes, which can include impulsive behaviour, hyperactivity, rapid speech, and little to no sleep. In the depressive state, sufferers often display similar symptoms as those found in clinical depression.
The various moods can switch, daily, weekly or even monthly. It is important to note that the treatment for manic depression is very different from that of major depression as medication such as anti depressants can make the condition worse. Manic depression is often treated with Lithium.
Cyclothymic Disorder
A milder yet more enduring type of bipolar disorder. A person's mood alternates between a less severe mania (known as hypomania) and a less severe depression.
Postnatal Depression
Postnatal depression (sometimes called postpartum depression) affects women after childbirth. Symptoms are similar to that of major depression. Difficulties in adapting to a new lifestyle and hormonal changes have been thought to contribute to this condition.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
This is an uncommon type of depression affecting a small percentage of menstruating women. It is a cyclical condition in which women may feel depressed and irritable for one or two weeks before their menstrual period each month. In some cases, the depression can become so severe that sufferers may even feel suicidal and unable to cope.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
This condition is dependant on weather changes. Winter seasons often trigger feelings of low mood and depression and summer seasons tend to induce happier moods. Seasonal affective disorder is more common in northern climates and in younger people. Like depression, seasonal affective disorder is treatable. Light therapy, a treatment that involves exposure to bright artificial light, often helps relieve symptoms.
More Information
http://www.depressionalliance.org
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression
http://www.webmd.boots.com
http://www.depression-guide.com