Defining Depression and Its Symptoms

Depression is more than just feeling blue. It’s a serious mental health condition that can profoundly impact your life, causing persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. But it's not just about mood - depression can also affect how you think, sleep, eat, and act. Let’s explore the different kinds of depression so you can better understand this condition and how to intervene if you or someone you care about may be caught in it’s grips.

There are several types of depressive disorders, with clinical depression (major depressive disorder) being the most prevalent and severe. Symptoms of major depressive disorder typically persist for at least two weeks and may include:

• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Sleep disturbances

• Difficulty concentrating

• Physical aches and pains

It may be encouraging to learn that depression is highly treatable. With talk therapy, medication, or a combination of both, many people find relief. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of depression, don't hesitate to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. Early intervention can make a world of difference in your recovery journey.

Different Types of Depression

Depression isn't one-size-fits-all. The DSM-5 outlines several types of depression that might affect you or someone you know. Major depressive disorder, the most common type, involves persistent sadness and a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities for a duration of at least two weeks.

If you've been feeling down for years on end, you might be dealing with dysthymia, or persistent depressive disorder. Symptoms of dysthymia are generally less severe than major depressive disorder, but tend to last longer.

For women, there's premenstrual dysphoric disorder, often causing extreme mood shifts, sadness, anxiety and irritability. Kids aren't immune from depression either - disruptive mood dysregulation disorder can cause extreme irritability in children and adolescents. It presents with extreme temper outbursts, chronic irritability, and difficulty functioning at home or at school.

Sometimes, depression isn't standalone. Depressive disorder due to another medical condition can stem from health issues like thyroid problems or heart disease. Recognizing the type of depression you may be dealing with is the first step towards getting the right help. Seeing your healthcare provider for a physical examination and bloodwork can help rule out organicity, as well as address any potential underlying health issue.

Depression comes in a number of varieties. Let's look at some types that may sound familiar.

Seasonal Blues and Baby Blues

Do you ever feel down when the days get shorter? You might have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a type of depression that typically hits in fall and winter. SAD is more common in women than in men and usually begins in young adulthood, between 18-30. It can significantly impact your daily functioning, work, relationships, and quality of life.

For expecting or new mothers, prenatal and postpartum depression, or PPD, can cast a shadow over what is often considered to be a joyous time. Perinatal depression is quite common, affecting anywhere from 13-19% of women. Because it can dramatically impact your ability to care for yourself and your baby, it is vital to discuss your symptoms of PPD with your healthcare provider, who can diagnose your condition, recommend a treatment plan, and refer you to a mental health professional for therapy.

Not Your Typical Depression

Atypical depression is a bit of an outlier. While it shares some symptoms with major depression, it has a few quirks. Your mood might perk up temporarily when good things happen, and you might find yourself eating more than usual. You might notice feeling extra sensitive to rejection, or feeling the need for increased sleep. In many ways, atypical depression is similar to major depression, but it can present in conjunction with it, or with other mental health issues, like panic disorder or social anxiety.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression

Depression can manifest in various ways, and its symptoms can range from mild to severe. You might find yourself feeling overwhelmed with sadness, hopelessness, or worry. Activities that once brought joy may now seem dull and uninteresting. It's common to experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns—you might eat too much or too little and struggle with insomnia or oversleeping.

Physical and Mental Changes

You may notice a significant drop in energy levels, making even simple tasks feel exhausting. Concentration can become a challenge, and decision-making can feel like an uphill battle. Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or sexual dysfunction are also commonplace and can be equally distressing.

Emotional Shifts

For children and teens, irritability often replaces sadness as a primary symptom. You might find yourself easily frustrated or angered by minor inconveniences. These symptoms can vary, but if they persist, it's essential to seek professional help.

Feeling down sometimes is normal, but if these symptoms persevere, it may be time to reach out. Whether it's you, a friend, a family member, or your partner, professional support can make all the difference. Depression may feel like a dark cloud, but with the right help, most can find their way back to sunnier days.

If you’re not finding relief on your own, with your current treatment, or are experiencing side effects, it may be time to consider working with a mental health professional. Depression therapy can provide insight to get to the root of your depression and the support you may need to feel like yourself again. To learn more about how depression therapy can help, book a free phone consultation with me today.