Depression - Overview

There are several forms of depression and each one has slightly different symptoms. Depending on these symptoms the doctor can diagnose and treat the specific form of depression.

Atypical Depression: This form of depression is more common than previously thought. It has specific symptoms and can appear in the teenage years. In fact this is form of depression that teenagers often suffer from. Here are a few symptoms that are typical to this condition

One of its characteristics is that patients suffering from this form of depression can be temporarily brought out of it by a happy event. It is termed mood reactivity. This differs from deep depression, when patients do not react to anything.

Other symptoms can include:

" A significant increase in appetite and weight gain.
" Sleeping too much, termed as Hypersomnia
" A heavy, feeling in the legs and arms, also known as, leaden paralysis
" Disinclined to socialize and not reacting with others in a normal way

Major Depression: This is the most common form of depression and the one that most people are familiar with. Symptoms include:

" Withdrawal from people and society
" Loss of appetite and weight loss
" A feeling of sadness and hopelessness
" Insomnia, not being able to sleep, with disturbed sleep patterns

Psychotic depression: this is a form of depression, combined with mental disorder. Hallucinations occur, the depressive can experience frightening, or negative imaginary sounds and images. This can be bordering on schizophrenia.

Dysthymia: This is a type of depression that can almost become a way of life. Some people will have this affliction their whole lives. They just feel sad and depressed all the time and may not even know that they are not well.

Manic Depression: This is depression that is marked by dramatic mood swings. This can be a very dangerous form of depression as it can often lead to suicide. It is also known as bipolar depression.

As you can see there are different forms of depression and even variations in severity. The most important thing is to understand is to admit there is a problem and get it treated as soon as possible. Early treatment will ensure that your condition does not get worse Treatment can relieve many of the symptoms of depression and allow you to regain the control of your life. Once this happens you will wonder how you ever allowed depression to take over your life and will enjoy a whole new freedom.