Types of Depression

There are many forms depression. The following are the names and descriptions of the various forms of depression.



Major Depressive Disorder- Major Depressive Disorder is also known as Major Depression. Major Depression may occur for only a short period of time in one's life, but usually it reoccurs often throughout a lifetime. Major Depression is characterized by by one's symptoms. These symptoms hinders one's daily activities. Some of these activities include working, sleeping, studying, and other pleasurable activities. Because Major Depression hinders one's daily activities, it makes it difficult to function normally.




Dysthymic disorder- Dysthymic Disorder is also called Dysthymia. Like Major Depression, can occur once in a life time, but usually reoccurs throughout a life time. Not only could the patient with Dysthymia experiences episodes from their particular type of depression, but they can also experience episodes of Major Depression. Dysthymia is characterized by long–term (two years or longer) but less severe symptoms that may not disable a person but can prevent one from functioning normally or feeling well.



Major Depression and Dysthymic Disorder are the two most common types of depression.

Some forms of depressive disorder exhibit slightly different characteristics than those described above, or they may develop under unique circumstances. However, not all scientists agree on how to characterize and define these forms of depression. They include:
Psychotic depression, which occurs when a severe depressive illness is accompanied by some form of psychosis, such as a break with reality, hallucinations, and delusions.




Postpartum depression- Postpartum Depression is diagnosed about a month after a mother gives birth. About 10- 15 percent of mothers exoerience this problem.



Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)- SAD is a disorder that generally ccurs during the Winder season. When there is sunlight, patients with SAD tends to get better. SAD may be teated with Light Therapy, but many times that is not enough. Usually, along with light therapy, antidepressants need to be perscribes.



Bipolar disorder- Bipolar Disorfer is also known as manic-depressive illness. Patients With Bipolar Disorder go from exterme highs (mania) and extreme lows (depression). Although Bipolar Disorder is common,it is not as common as major depression or dysthymia.