What is depression?
Depression is a common mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. It goes beyond normal sadness or grief and can affect various aspects of life, including mood, behavior, physical health, and cognitive functioning.
People with depression may experience symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep and appetite, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and, in some cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Depression can vary in intensity and duration, and it can be triggered by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Depression is treatable with therapy and many patients benefit from medication and lifestyle changes as well.
The most common types of depression are listed below. Each type of depression can vary in severity and duration, but all are treatable with a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Characteristics: Persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities for at least two weeks.
Symptoms: Fatigue, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.
2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
Characteristics: A long-term, chronic form of depression where symptoms last for at least two years, though they may be less severe than in major depression.
Symptoms: Low self-esteem, lack of energy, difficulty making decisions, feelings of hopelessness, and ongoing sadness.
3. Bipolar Disorder (formerly known as Manic Depression)
Characteristics: Alternating episodes of depression and mania/hypomania (elevated mood, high energy, or irritability).
Symptoms: Periods of depression are similar to major depressive disorder, while manic episodes involve excessive energy, risky behavior, and an inflated sense of self.
4. Postpartum Depression
Characteristics: Depression that occurs after childbirth, often within the first year of delivery, affecting the mother’s ability to bond with or care for the baby.
Symptoms: Severe sadness, anxiety, fatigue, difficulty bonding with the baby, and feelings of being overwhelmed or inadequate as a parent.
5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Characteristics: A type of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight.
Symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain, sleeping more than usual, and feelings of sadness or hopelessness that improve in spring or summer.
6. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Characteristics: A severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes intense mood swings, irritability, and depressive symptoms in the days leading up to menstruation.
Symptoms: Mood swings, irritability, feelings of hopelessness, and physical symptoms like bloating and fatigue.
