She Strengthens

The Many Faces of Depression

Feeling hopeless, disconnected, or just plain miserable for two weeks or more? You might be experiencing depression, a complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide. But did you know that depression comes in many forms, each with its unique set of symptoms and characteristics?

Major Depression: The Dark Cloud

Imagine a dark mood that consumes your entire being, making everyday activities feel like a chore. This is what it’s like to live with major depression, also known as clinical depression. According to Harvard University, major depression affects approximately 7.1% of adults in the United States. Symptoms include trouble sleeping, changes in appetite or weight, loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Persistent Depressive Disorder: The Long Haul

Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, is a long-term condition that can last for two years or more. While it may not be as intense as major depression, it can still make life feel like a constant struggle. Watch out for appetite and sleep changes, low energy, low self-esteem, or hopelessness. Genetics and brain chemistry are thought to play a role in this condition.

Depressive Psychosis: The Mind Games

Imagine experiencing delusions or hallucinations on top of severe depression. This is what it’s like to live with depressive psychosis. Psychosis can trigger thoughts of suicide, and treatment typically involves antipsychotic and antidepressant medications, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy and electroconvulsive therapy.

Bipolar Disorder: The Roller Coaster

Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating periods of high energy and risky behavior (mania) and depression. Treatment focuses on stabilizing moods, and may involve a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Differences in brain structure and family history are believed to contribute to the risk of developing bipolar disorder.

Unipolar Depression: The Single-Faced

Unipolar depression refers to depression without mania. It’s often used to describe major depressive disorder or clinical depression. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

Atypical Depression: The Unexpected Twist

Atypical depression shares many symptoms with other forms of depression, including feeling sad, increased appetite, and sleeping too much. However, people with atypical depression may experience temporary improvements in response to positive events. Risk factors include alcohol and drug use, childhood trauma, environmental stressors, and a family history of depression, bipolar disorder, or alcoholism.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): The Hormonal Havoc

PMDD is an extreme form of premenstrual syndrome that causes severe irritability, depression, or anxiety. Symptoms typically occur between ovulation and menstruation, affecting up to 5% of menstruating women. Treatment may involve medication, birth control pills, and over-the-counter pain relievers, as well as stress management, a balanced diet, and regular exercise.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): The Winter Blues

SAD is a type of depression that occurs in response to the lack of natural light during fall and winter. Treatment typically involves light therapy, as well as medication and psychotherapy. People with bipolar disorder may also experience seasonal mood changes.

Situational Depression: The Reactive Response

Situational depression occurs when a person fails to recover from stress in the expected way. Symptoms are similar to other forms of depression, but start within three months of a stressful event and tend to resolve within six months.

Postpartum Depression: The New Mother’s Struggle

Postpartum depression can occur anytime during pregnancy or within 12 months after delivery. Hormonal and physical changes, combined with sleep deprivation, can create a perfect storm for depression. If you have a history of depression, experience abnormal stress during or after pregnancy, have medical complications, or substance use problems, you may be at greater risk for postpartum depression.

Getting Help: The First Step

If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, talk to your doctor about the possibility of depression. Be prepared to discuss stressful events that coincide with your symptoms, your personal or familial history of depression, and when your symptoms began or changed. Remember, depression is treatable, and there are many budget-friendly options available, including low-income or free community mental health services, mental health therapy apps, sliding scale therapists, crisis hotlines, and support groups.

Suicide Prevention: The Lifeline

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, call 911 or your local emergency number, ask someone to stay with you until help arrives, and remove any weapons or substances that may cause harm. You can also reach out to a crisis or suicide prevention hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

Remember, depression is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Understanding the different types of depression can help you find the right treatment and support. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help – you are not alone.