Types of Depression
Types of Depression
Every individual faces inevitable ups and downs in the the life, which often makes him or her discouraged, sad, and lack of hope in life. Depression happens over time, but then there are various types of depression which occur in an individual. An individual needs to understand that it is essential to consult a medical specialist to find out the right cause and current type of depression in the patient. Receiving medical treatment is essential, and therefore, one needs to find out the kind of depression which he is suffering from.
There are several types of depression which are classified as per the cause and symptoms of the particular depression type.
- Major Depression: This is one of the significant types of depression. This type of depression is also known as classic depression or unipolar disorder. One of the unique aspects of depression is that an individual can have every appreciating part in their lives yet suffer from depression. A very less number of individuals know this. There are certain specific symptoms of major depression which help doctors to identify the current status of the woman. Sleeping too much than normal or not getting good sleep at all, lack of energy when compared to earlier, loss of appetite, unexplained pain and ache are some of the most commonly noted symptoms of major depression.
- Persistent Depression: Persistent depression, also known as persistent depressive disorder, chronic depression, and dysthymia is that particular type of depression which lasts in an individual for a time period of minimum 2 years. Persistent depression does not cause such severe damage to the patient’s health in the long term, but then it does cause certain unrepairable changes in the relationships in the respective individual. Some of the symptoms include low self-esteem, difficulty in concentration, changes in sleep pattern, appetite changes, and social withdrawal issues. At times, double depression is seen in patients, which comprises of both persistent depression and major depression.
- Bipolar Depression: Bipolar depression, earlier known as bipolar disorder involves alternative phases of happiness and depression. The symptoms which such a patient will have in times of depression include lack of energy, concentration and sleep problems, and suicidal thoughts. The patient faces certain specific signs during the manic phase including high energy, fast coming thoughts and sleep, and euphoric feeling.
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Also known as PMDD, it is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). There are hormonal changes linked to PMDD. The symptoms of PMDD usually show up when the ovulation starts and disappear when the menstrual cycle begins. Some of these symptoms include anger, sadness, extreme mood swings, lack of energy and focus, and sleep issues. The severity of PMDD is much more than PMS which is observed by several women who have suffered from the same.
- Depressive Psychosis: In this type of depression, there is a presence of a combination of major depression along with psychotic features. Hallucinations and delusions can be seen in such patients. Patients with depressive psychosis usually face still sitting at one place and slowed paced physical movements.
- Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression is also known as postpartum depression or peripartum onset present with major depressive disorder. Postpartum depression is defined for the depression which occurs after the birth of the baby. Perinatal depression occurs explicitly in women during their pregnancy tenure. The symptoms of perinatal depression include sadness, exhaustion, increased worry about baby’s health, and difficulty caring for the baby. It is important for the family members, especially the partner of a pregnant woman to support her during the challenging phases of depression.
- Situational Depression: Situational depression usually looks like major depression and occurs after a particular event. Some such conditions include severe illness, facing serious financial troubles, or loss of a significant family member. The symptoms present in this type of depression include insomnia, increased sensitivity to criticism, untimely eating of meals, and sleeping for more number of hours on regular basis. Situational depression symptoms exist in the respective individual for a certain time, after which the individual recovers on his own.
Thus, there are several types of depression which occur from one individual to another. One needs to take care of the overall mental health such that depression or conditions like depression do not happen. Even if any of the above occurs, then it is essential to diagnose the condition as soon as possible to commence with the right treatment.
