When it comes to depression, it is important to understand the different types and their severity. Major depression, persistent depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder, peripartum depression, clinical depression, and atypical depression are all types of depression that can affect people in different ways. Major depression is a type of depression that 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.
If the depression lasts for two years or more, it is known as persistent depressive disorder. Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a type of depression that involves episodes of high energy and high moods as well as low depressive periods. Traditional antidepressants are not always recommended for bipolar depression because there is no evidence that they are more effective than a placebo. Seasonal affective disorder is a type of major depression that occurs most often during the winter months when there is less sunlight.
A combination of antidepressant and antipsychotic drugs can treat psychotic depression, while electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can also be an option. Women who experience major depression after childbirth may have peripartum depression, while about 1 in 10 men also experience this type of depression. Clinical depression is the most severe form of depression and is also known as major depressive disorder or major depression. It is not the same as depression caused by a loss or medical condition.
Persistent depressive disorder, formerly known as dysthymia, refers to low mood that has lasted at least two years but may not reach the intensity of major depression. People with this type of depression can function day by day but feel depressed or joyless most of the time. Other symptoms may include changes in appetite and sleep, lack of energy, low self-esteem or hopelessness. Situational depression is a type of adjustment disorder that stems from a person's struggle to accept changes that have occurred in their life.
Atypical depression is characterized by the ability of the depressed individual's mood to improve after a positive event. Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is classified as a type of depressive disorder and involves difficulty regulating moods and emotions in an age-appropriate manner. If you or someone you love is struggling with any type of depression, it is important to contact your doctor or mental health specialist to get help and determine possible causes. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 can provide information on support and treatment facilities in your area.
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