Types of Depression

Depression, a mental health condition, is a common experience for many individuals around the world. It is a complex condition that can manifest in different ways, and it is important to understand the different types and symptoms of depression to better diagnose and treat it. In this blog, we will discuss the various types of depression, their symptoms, and what you can do to get help.

Various Types of Depression

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), also known as Clinical Depression, is a type of depression characterized by persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness, accompanied by a range of physical and behavioural symptoms. These symptoms may be severe enough to interfere with daily activities, relationships and one’s quality of life. It's important to note that not everyone with MDD experiences all of these symptoms, and the severity and duration of symptoms can vary from person to person. MDD is a serious mental illness that affects millions of people worldwide and can have a significant impact on a person's ability to function in daily life.

The exact cause of MDD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. People with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders, as well as those who have experienced significant life stressors or traumatic events, are at increased risk for developing MDD.

MDD can be treated using a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Antidepressant medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can help regulate mood and improve symptoms. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help individuals address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their depression and develop coping skills to manage their symptoms.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), also known as Dysthymia, is a type of depression characterized by long-lasting, low-grade, symptoms of depression that persist for two years or more. PDD is a chronic form of depression that can impact a person's ability to function in daily life and can lead to significant impairment in quality of life. This can be characterized by a general feeling of sadness, low self-esteem, and difficulty in enjoying life.

The exact cause of PDD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. People with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders, as well as those who have experienced significant life stressors or traumatic events, are at increased risk for developing PDD.

Treatment for PDD typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Antidepressant medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can help regulate mood and improve symptoms. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help individuals address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their depression and develop coping skills to manage their symptoms.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition characterized by episodes of extreme mood swings ranging from mania or hypomania (abnormally elevated or irritable mood, increased energy and activity levels, and decreased need for sleep) to depression (sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure). Mania is a state of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, grandiose thoughts, racing thoughts, impulsive behaviour, and sometimes psychosis (loss of touch with reality). Hypomania is a milder form of mania, with similar symptoms but less severe and less disruptive to daily life. Depression, on the other hand, is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low energy, and decreased interest or pleasure in usual activities. There are several types of bipolar disorder, including:

Bipolar I Disorder, is characterized by one or more manic or mixed episodes (manic and depressive symptoms occurring at the same time) and typically one or more major depressive episodes.

Bipolar II Disorder is characterized by one or more major depressive episodes and at least one hypomanic episode, but no manic or mixed episodes.

Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia) is characterized by multiple hypomanic episodes and periods of depressive symptoms, but none of them is severe enough to be diagnosed as a major depressive episode or hypomanic episode.

The exact cause of the bipolar disorder is unknown, but a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors is believed to play a role. Stressful life events, substance abuse, and a family history of bipolar disorder can increase the risk of developing the condition. Treatment for bipolar disorder typically involves a combination of medication (such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants) and therapy (such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and family-focused therapy). Self-care, healthy lifestyle habits, and support from loved ones can also help manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, with symptoms typically starting in the fall and continuing into the winter months. SAD is a type of major depressive disorder that is estimated to affect approximately 5% of the general population and up to 10% of people in northern latitudes where the winter season is more pronounced. Symptoms of SAD include feelings of sadness, fatigue, and a lack of interest in activities.

The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the changes in daylight hours and the disruption of circadian rhythms (the internal biological process that regulates sleep and wakefulness) that occur during the winter months. Other factors that may contribute to SAD include genetics, neurotransmitter imbalances (chemicals in the brain that regulate moods such as melatonin and serotonin), and decreased exposure to natural light.

Treatment for SAD typically includes a combination of light therapy, medication, and psychotherapy. Light therapy involves exposure to bright light, often delivered through a special light box, for a set period of time each day. Antidepressant medication and psychotherapy can also help to regulate mood and improve coping skills.

Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a type of depression that affects women after giving birth. It is estimated to affect 10-15% of women who have given birth and can develop anytime within the first year postpartum. PPD is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on a woman's well-being and her ability to care for her newborn. Symptoms of PPD include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, and a lack of interest in the baby. Women with PPD may also experience feelings of guilt or shame and may have difficulty bonding with their babies.

PPD is thought to be caused by a combination of physical, hormonal, and psychological factors. The rapid hormonal changes that occur after birth, combined with the stress of adjusting to new motherhood and the physical demands of caring for a newborn, can contribute to the development of PPD. A history of depression or other mood disorders, lack of support, and stressful life events can also increase the risk of PPD.

Treatment for PPD typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and support from friends and family. Antidepressant medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help regulate mood and improve symptoms. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help women develop coping skills and address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their depression.

Psychotic Depression

Psychotic Depression, also known as Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Features, is a type of depression that is characterized by both symptoms of depression and symptoms of psychosis such as delusions and hallucinations. Psychosis is a state of mind in which a person's thoughts and perceptions are significantly distorted. Delusions are false beliefs that are not based on reality, while hallucinations are sensory experiences that are not real. People with psychotic depression may also experience disordered thinking, such as difficulty concentrating or making decisions. Symptoms of depression, such as feelings of hopelessness and loss of interest in activities, are also present in this type of depression.

The exact cause of psychotic depression is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. People with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia are at increased risk for developing psychotic depression.

Treatment for psychotic depression typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Antipsychotic medication can help to manage the symptoms of psychosis, while antidepressant medication can help regulate mood. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), also known as shock therapy, can be effective in treating severe cases of psychotic depression.

Atypical Depression

Atypical Depression is a type of depression that is characterized by symptoms that are different from those typically seen in other forms of depression. Unlike classic depression, which is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, atypical depression is characterized by symptoms that come and go and may be triggered by specific events or circumstances. People with atypical depression may experience increased appetite, weight gain, or sleep, as well as a feeling of heaviness in the limbs. They may also experience a heightened sensitivity to rejection and a tendency to worry excessively. Atypical depression is often difficult to diagnose because it does not fit the typical criteria for MDD, but it is still a serious condition that requires treatment.

Atypical depression is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. People with a history of depression or other mood disorders, as well as those who have experienced significant life stressors or traumatic events, are at increased risk for developing atypical depression.

Treatment for atypical depression typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Antidepressant medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can help regulate mood and improve symptoms. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help individuals address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their depression and develop coping skills to manage their symptoms.

Self-care Strategies for Depression

In addition to seeking professional treatment, self-care strategies can also be helpful in managing symptoms of all types of depression, including:

• Staying physically active through exercise or physical activity
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Practising relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing or mindfulness
• Seeking support from friends, family, or a support group
• Spending time outdoors in natural light, especially in the morning (especially for SAD)
• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule (especially for SAD)
• Asking for help with household tasks and caring for the baby (especially for PPD)
• Connecting with other new mothers for support and encouragement (especially for PPD)
• Staying engaged in activities that bring a sense of purpose and fulfilment (especially for atypical)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Types of Depression