Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
This type of depression is more serious than PDD, lasting two weeks or longer, most of the day, and nearly every day. In addition to the symptoms of PDD, MDD features overwhelming sadness, markedly diminished interest in activities that usually bring pleasure, psychomotor agitation or retardation, or recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
Other types of depression include Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) where major depressive symptoms occur at particular times of the year, usually winter, Postpartum Depression which can occur after a pregnancy and is triggered by hormonal changes, and Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood, following life changes that have caused a great deal of stress.
Types of Depression
The term “depression” is often used to describe everyday sadness or disappointment. Real clinical depression however is a serious biological, psychological and social disorder that, at best is debilitating, and at worst can be life threatening! Persistent Depressive Disorder
One type of depression called Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), (formerly known as Dysthymic Disorder or dysthymia), is characterized by a depressed mood that occurs, 1) for most of the day, 2) for more days than not, and 3) for at least two years (one year for children or adolescents).
The symptoms of PDD include at least two of the following: poor appetite or overeating, insomnia or hypersomnia (sleeping too much), low energy, low self-esteem, poor concentration or feelings of hopelessness.
Treatments that Help Relieve Depression
There is no need to suffer with depression. Today treatments in psychotherapy are very effective. One requirement though is working with a therapist who can “attune” to your thoughts and feelings, and respond in ways that make you feel heard, understood, valued, never judged!
For some people with severe depression,
a competent psychiatrist will typically recommend medication in combination with psychotherapy for the quickest, most effective way out of this serious state of being. Medication is a choice however, and some people prefer not to take it. That choice will always be respected in treatment with me, unless you are a harm to yourself.