Depression Types
A Discussion of some of the more common Types of Depressive Illness
There are just as many types of depression as there are potential causes of depression. Many individuals may have more than one variety of depression at the same time and many tend to have other contributing problems such as substance abuse, alcoholism, eating disorders or anxiety disorders. Although there are many forms of depression, the National institute of Mental Health indicates that the one constant between all of them is the early diagnosis and treatment of the problem. Some of the more common types of depression are described below.
Unipolar depression or major depressive disorder
One of the main symptoms of this form of depression includes a persistent sadness and a loss of pleasure in the activities that the individual once enjoyed. Mental confusion, sleep problems, inability to concentrate, loss of appetite and physical aches and pains are common. Although it can strike anyone at any age, the majority who suffer from this variety seem to be in the twenty-five to forty-five age bracket. Although treatment is beneficial, this form of depressive illness usually dissipates between a six and nine month period on its own. It seems plausible that this happens due to the body’s ability to correct potential abnormalities that it detects.
Bipolar Depression
Bipolar depression is diagnosed when an individual isn’t able to experience normal moods. It’s characterized by extreme mood swings. An individual one moment can exhibit major depressive behavior, lethargy and sadness and within a short period of time become overly exuberant, energetic and giddy. There are many types and classifications of bipolar disorder, the majority of which get classified according to the severity of the symptoms. Imbalanced brain chemistry is suspected and most bipolar disorders, according to NIMH, can be successfully treated with medications, eighty percent of the time.
Psychotic depression
This form of depression tends to be fairly serious in nature and needs immediate attention. Symptoms include mental hallucinations, the hearing of voices, seeing objects or people not present and delusional thinking. These people tend to be irrational and oblivious to the consequences of their actions as well as being suicidal.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression develops, according to NIMH, in ten percent of new mothers following birth. It’s considered to be a major depression characterized by sadness, irritability, panic attacks, insomnia, guilt and possibly suicidal thoughts. Postpartum symptoms, if left untreated, can last from several months to a year in length and can become a real danger for both mother and child.
Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD
This type of depression develops in individuals that are sensitive to seasonal changes and light. In these individuals, darkness causes sadness, irritability , as well as eating and sleeping more. When spring arises and more sunlight is present, these individuals tend to become happier and more energetic.
The above list doesn’t include every variety of depression known. It does, however describe some of the more common forms of depressive illness. Regardless, early detection and treatment will improve both the quality of life for the individual affected as well as the lives of the loved ones surrounding them.
