Subtypes of depression
Oftentimes, depression is divided into subtypes. These subtypes are based upon the symptoms that are exhibited with each type of depression. Some of the main subtypes of depression include:
1. Mono-polar depression (also known as dysthymic disorder)
This type of depression consists only of depressive symptoms. In mild cases of mono-polar depression there is no interference with an individual's ability to work or their ability to participate in social activities. (These minor cases are known as "dysthymic disorder.") However, in more severe cases of mono-polar depression, these areas can be affected.
2. Bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depressive disease or cyclothymic disorder)
A person with bipolar disorder has periods of depression that alternate with periods of elevated mood level. The periods of depression are known as the depressive phase while the periods of elevated mood level are known as the manic phase. While a person is in the manic phase they show symptoms of increased mental and physical activity. They also tend to sleep poorly and have problems concentrating whenever they are in the manic phase. Sometimes a person may only have a mild form of bipolar disorder. In such cases, this mild form of bipolar disorder is known as "cyclthymic disorder."
3. Manic disorder
This disorder is actually believed to be the same as bipolar disorder, but the depressive state simply has not occurred yet. Manic depression is characterized by an abnormally elevated mood. This mood is accompanied by unrealistic optimism, lack of sleep, and hyperactive behavior.
4. Depression caused by physical disease
Sometimes a physical disease such as hypertension, Parkinson's disease, heart disease, stroke, and Cushing's syndrome can cause the symptoms of depression. Diseases such as these are actually the most common cause of depression. However, this type of depression can also be triggered by a lengthy illness such as the flu. Another disease that often contributes to depression is hypothyroidism, wherein a person lacks thyroid hormones and thus has a slowed metabolism.
5. Postnatal Depression
Oftentimes, women go through a period of depression after giving birth to a baby. This is due to the fact that the birthing process is both physically and mentally exhausting. Therefore, this process can actually drain the body of important nutrients. This lack of nutrients can in turn lead to depressive symptoms.
6. Seasonal Affective Disorder
During cold, dark times of the year a person may become depressed. Then when it becomes warm and light outside again, this depression may then go away. This is because light stimulates brain activity while a lack of light may lead to depression.
Depression news on the Web
Perform Wild Yoga to Beat Depression
Depression is a common complaint among both men and women. Just turn on the television and you will see numerous commercials for antidepressants. We live in a fast paced, hectic world. Yoga is a wonderful way to relieve depression, either on its own or as a compliment to traditional... |
Surprising Depression Treatments Show Promise
Traditional antidepressants like Prozac are widely used to treat depression by boosting serotonin levels, which researchers have long believed are at the root of depression. Research shows that other drugs, including ketamine — also known by its street name, Special K — may be more effective. |
Magnetic therapy for depression promising
MAYWOOD, Ill., Feb. 7 (UPI) -- Psychotherapy and antidepressants treat only about one-third of patients who suffer depression, but a magnetic therapy is promising, a U.S. researcher said. |
Dr. Felicia Wade: Depression and the Elderly
The recent death of TV pioneer Don Cornelius underscores the growing problem of depression and suicide among our elderly population. Most people don't expect older adults to take their own lives, but this population has the highest suicide rate of any age group. |
Tested drug relieves depression
Q: I participated in two clinical trials of ketamine for depression. The infusion was not pleasant, but a few hours later, my depression was mysteriously lifted. It was as though someone carefully cleaned, polished and rejuvenated every cell in my brain. |
'I Wanted To Live': New Depression Drugs Offer Hope For Toughest Cases
The anesthetic and club drug ketamine seems to lift depression symptoms in a matter of hours. But how does it work? Researchers are searching for the answer in an attempt to make a new class of depression medications. "We can take care of a migraine in hours," one researcher asks. "So why do we have to wait weeks or months with depression?" |
|