Several types of depression exist. Depressed (or irritable) mood or a loss of interest in pleasurable activities is characteristic of all types, & all types have to cause impairment in functioning. Do you follow? There’re some differences in symptom presentation, how ever, & depression treatment approaches may vary somewhat. The different types of depression include the following:
- Major depressive disorder
- Dysthymic disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Bipolar depression
- Depressive disorder not otherwise specified
In major depression, qualifiers can be added to the diagnosis, such as “atypical”, “melancholic”, or “post-partum onset”. Such qualifiers describe a specific pattern of symptom presentation. By example, increased appetite, rejection sensitivity, & a sensation of heaviness of the limbs characterize an atypical major depressive episode.
Melancholic depression is most associated with sleep & appetite loss & psychomotor retardation. It’s characterized by a phenomenon known as a diurnal variation of mood – feeling much worse in the morning with some improvement in mood by evening.
Major depression & dysthymic disorder are the most common forms of depression. Dysthymic disorder is more chronic with persistent sadness nearly daily for at least 2 years. In seasonal affective disorder, the depression symptoms are the same as in major depression but occur exclusively within one season (usually the winter).
Bipolar depression is the depressed phase of a condition called bipolar disorder. In many cases, the symptom presentation of depression doesn’t fit the criteria as described in the DSM-IV-TR. Symptoms, how ever, may be causing impairment in functioning. Do you follow? The diagnosis of depressive disorder not otherwise specified can be often used in those cases. Even though the type of depression informs as to prognosis & best treatment modality, in general, all types respond to both medication therapy & talk therapy.
Caroline is a retired registered ® nurse with over 25 years of health care experience & is the host of All Depression Resources, a Free Depression Resources that discuss various aspects of depression in a matter-of-fact way, & provide questions that patients & their families can refer to as invaluable resources to learn about depression & how it may have an effect on those they love.
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