Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects how people think, feel, and manage daily activities. It can have many different causes, ranging from life events to chemical changes in the brain. There are several types of depression, including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder, peripartum depression, psychotic depression, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Each type of depression has its own unique set of symptoms and treatment options.
Major depression is the most common type of depression. It is characterized by five or more symptoms that last for two weeks or more. These symptoms include a depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide. Traditional antidepressants are not always recommended as first-line treatments for major depression because there is no evidence that they are more effective than a placebo.
Persistent depressive disorder is a type of depression that lasts for two years or more. It is also known as dysthymia or chronic depression. People with persistent depressive disorder may not experience the same intensity of symptoms as those with major depression, but it can still interfere with relationships and daily activities. Bipolar disorder is also sometimes called manic depression.
People with bipolar disorder experience extreme mood episodes that range from high-energy highs to low depressive periods. During the low phase, they will have symptoms of major depression. Traditional antidepressants are not always recommended as first-line treatments for bipolar depression because there is no evidence that they are more effective than a placebo. In addition, for a small percentage of people with bipolar disorder, some traditional antidepressants may increase the risk of causing a high phase of the disease or speed up the frequency of having more episodes over time. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of major depression that occurs most often during the winter months when days get shorter and sunlight decreases.
It usually disappears in spring and summer. Treatment options for SAD include counseling, medication, light therapy, and complementary therapies. Peripartum depression is a type of major depression that occurs in the weeks and months after childbirth. About 1 in 10 men also experience depression in the peripartum period. Antidepressant medications may help in a similar way to treating major depression that is not related to childbirth. Psychotic depression is a combination of major depression and psychosis.
Symptoms include hallucinations and delusions. Treatment options include a combination of antidepressant and antipsychotic drugs as well as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is similar to perinatal depression in that it may be related to hormonal changes. Symptoms usually start right after ovulation and begin to subside once you have your period. Treatment options include lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress management as well as medications. Situational depression, or adjustment disorder with depressed mood, resembles major depression in many ways.
It is caused by stressful life events such as death of a loved one, divorce or relationship changes, family problems, addiction, illness, or other physical or emotional disorders. Understanding the different levels and severity of depression can help you recognize when you need help and seek appropriate treatment. If you think you may be suffering from any type of depression, it's important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms so they can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.
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