Depression Overview
Types and Forms of Depression
There are many types or forms of depression a person can have, and only a qualified medical professional can diagnose your condition. Here you will find a list of common symptoms of many forms of depression often diagnosed by doctors. Note this list is not comprehensive, and you may have other symptoms not listed here.
- Dysthymia - people who have dysthymia usually feel depressed but not overly depressed, although they may have long-lasting symptoms. Symptoms are very similar to major depression, and include fatigue, poor self-esteem, guilty feelings, withdrawal from friends and activities, poor sleep and lack of concentration. Many people with this condition feel anxious or irritable and suffer insomnia, but do not know why. Often people do not seek help from a medical professional, which is important for recovery. While dysthymia is a milder form of depression, it can still devastate a person's wellness and decrease a person's quality of life. Studies suggest roughly six percent, possible more; suffer from this form of depression.
- Major Depression - often also called clinical depression, this is one of the more severe forms of depression. A person with major depression will experience all of the "common" symptoms of depression, but they will last for several weeks or more. Some people may feel depressed for a few days, but experience this several times each month as well. Treatment for major or clinical depression, whether in the form of psychotherapy, medication therapy, natural treatments and lifestyle changes may be essential to recovery.
- Bipolar Depression - in this form of depression, a person will experience symptoms of major depression, but may also experience times when they feel unusually energetic and upbeat. They may also be irritable or anxious. Some people engage in reckless behaviors. Doctors usually define these symptoms as "manic". Most patients with bipolar depression will seek treatment. While many people prefer to feel manic than depressed, neither state is ideal for one's health and wellness. A doctor or other mental health provider will work with a patient to create a more balanced lifestyle.
- Postpartum Depression - women who recently gave birth to a baby may fall victim to postpartum depression. This form of depression, much like major depression, can be very serious. Typically doctors screen for postpartum depression when a woman does not recover from the "baby blues," a much milder form of depression, roughly two weeks or so after giving birth. When left untreated, postpartum depression may develop into an even more serious condition, called postpartum psychosis, requiring immediate medical attention.
There are many other forms of depression a doctor may diagnose in patients. It is important if you feel blue for more than a few days or unwell for long stretches of time or frequently, you talk with your doctor and receive a proper diagnosis. Only then can you begin the road to recovery.