Depression is a delicate topic for many people, and adequate care and support must be given to those who suffer from major depressive episodes.
Many misconceptions of depression have circulated. For example, some people think that it is another word for being sad and down. However, depression is much more severe than this, to a point where it can heavily disable cognitive functions such as the ability to think, remember, make decisions, and general daily life activity.
There are different types of depression and some can be managed with some medical support. If you’re concerned that you’re suffering from depression and you want to learn more, below breaks down the different types of depression so you can begin to get the required treatment.
Major Depression
Major depression, sometimes known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression involves a loss of interest in general daily activities, so much that it can disable movements and damage social relationships, to a point that you’re more than happy to stay in bed and not talk to anyone.
You may be also experiencing other symptoms of major depression, such as:
- Significant weight gain or weight loss
- Struggling to sleep in the night and stay in bed through the day
- Feeling worthless and guilty
- Regular thoughts of suicide
- Not wanting to complete simple activities such as brushing your teeth
- Struggling to make decisions
- Regularly feeling restless and agitated
- Crying
- Feeling anxious and scared
If these symptoms last for at least two weeks the doctor will diagnose you with major depression. It is important to note that not everyone will suffer from the same symptoms, and different forms of major depression come with their conditions.
- Melancholia – A term used to describe a state of depression that impacts your physical health where your mobility becomes slower.
- Psychotic Depression – Showing signs of hallucinations or delusion. These are uncontrollable thoughts where you believe you’re seeing or hearing things in the mind that seem true. This is also a form of paranoia.
- Antenatal and Postnatal Depression – Depression is common amongst women after pregnancy. This is known as the antenatal period. Postnatal is where depression occurs after the baby is born.
Bipolar Disorder
Typically known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is when the mood of a person escalates unexpectedly at any time. The symptoms are on a scale. Sometimes the feelings are vibrant with lots of energy and completing tasks as quickly as possible without thought. Bipolar disorder can also cause you to feel irritated and frustrated.
Bipolar disorder is different from other types of depression. It is naturally linked to family history, and if moods fluctuate, it is important that you make this clear with a professional to understand its symptoms.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is also a form of bipolar disorder. This again links to the regular fluctuation of moods such as hypomania and links to depressive symptoms. These naturally occur in shorter bursts and are not as severe or regular.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
SAD is a condition that occurs during certain seasons and could be related to light exposure within different seasons that can cause a disturbance of mood or manic episodes. For example, depression may occur in the winter, and the symptoms may disperse during a new season. Depressive symptoms in SAD include no energy, a lack of or too much sleep, and weight gain.
Get Examined For Depression Now…
Depression can be difficult to diagnose because it comes in a variety of forms. It can also impact people in many different ways. Seeking a professional opinion should you believe that you’re suffering from different types of depression and its symptoms are the right step to take forward to get the right treatment and support as soon as possible.
