Different Kinds of Depression
Depression is a class of disorders that cause both physical and emotional symptoms. Sometimes, the term “depression” describes clinical depression, which can be defined by a cluster of symptoms. This condition has no specific cause, but is influenced by many factors.
However, other kinds of depression are associated with their own symptoms. Learn about SAD depression symptoms, bipolar depression symptoms, symptoms of PTSD and more. If you believe you are experiencing symptoms associated with any of these kinds of depression, contact your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Major (or Clinical) Depression Symptoms
Major depression is a clinical diagnosis made when symptoms go beyond feeling sad. In general, major depression symptoms include:
- Changes in appetite
- Hopelessness
- Low energy levels
- Problems concentrating
- Reduced interest in activities
- Self-criticism or feelings of worthlessness
- Self-destructive or suicidal thoughts
- Trouble with sleeping (too much or too little).
Symptom severity can vary, and some can be debilitating. Other individuals may experience less severe symptoms, including those associated with dysthymia, a long-lasting, but milder form of depression.
SAD Depression Symptoms
Unlike other kinds of depression, the changing seasons seem to cause seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD depression symptoms are cyclical, usually appearing in the late fall, and lasting through the winter. These symptoms also seem to be affected by environmental light levels, in addition to changing levels of hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain.
Common SAD depression symptoms include:
- Appetite changes or cravings
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of interest
- Sleeping too much
- Weight gain.
Symptoms of PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may appear after a traumatizing life experience. Many types of experience, including sexual assault or military combat, can cause symptoms of PTSD. However, these experiences won’t always cause PTSD, and each person may react differently to the same event. Symptoms of PTSD typically include:
- Anxiety
- Emotional numbness
- Flashbacks
- Losing interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Nightmares
- Strong feelings of depression or guilt.
Postpartum Depression Symptoms
Postpartum depression appears in some women who have recently given birth. Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth, combined with emotional and lifestyle changes that come along with a new baby, can sometimes lead to depression. Many women experience a condition termed the “baby blues” after giving birth. Symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability
- Mood swings.
Postpartum depression, however, is a more serious condition that causes these additional symptoms:
- Feelings of guilt or shame
- Insomnia
- Intense negative emotions and mood swings
- Severe fatigue
- Social withdrawal
- Trouble bonding with your baby.
Bipolar Depression Symptoms
Bipolar disorder is a mental health problem characterized by states of both mania and various kinds of depression. Bipolar mania symptoms include:
- Feeling “high” or “wired”
- Having excessive energy
- Impulsive or high-risk behavior
- Restlessness and difficulty sleeping.
Bipolar depression symptoms include:
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Desire for self-injury
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
If you feel that you may be suffering from any of these kinds of depression, you should see a doctor.
Resources
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2008). Depression self-assessment. Retrieved May 7, 2010, from the Mayo Clinic website: www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression/MH00103_D.
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2008). Dysthymia (Dysthymic disorder). Retrieved May 7, 2010, from the Mayo Clinic website: www.mayoclinic.com/health/dysthymia/DS01111.
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2008). Postpartum depression. Retrieved May 7, 2010, from the Mayo Clinic website: www.mayoclinic.com/health/postpartum-depression/DS00546.
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2008). Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Retrieved May 7, 2010, from the Mayo Clinic website: www.mayoclinic.com/health/seasonal-affective-disorder/DS00195.
Medline Plus Staff. (2010). Seasonal affective disorder. Retrieved May 7, 2010, from the Medline Plus website: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001532.htm.
National Institute of Mental Health Staff. (2009). Bipolar disorder. Retrieved May 7, 2010, from the National Institute of Mental Health website: www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder/complete-index.shtml#pub3.
National Institute of Mental Health Staff. (2009). What are the symptoms of PTSD? Retrieved May 7, 2010, from the National Institute of Mental Health website: www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/what-are-the-symptoms-of-ptsd.shtml.