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Types of Depression

  • Writer: Shannon Coulson
    Shannon Coulson
  • Sep 2
  • 2 min read


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1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

  • Definition: Persistent low mood or loss of interest/pleasure for at least 2 weeks, plus additional symptoms (sleep changes, appetite changes, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating).

  • Features: Can be single episode or recurrent.

  • Example: Persistent sadness, anhedonia, poor concentration, and fatigue for several weeks.

2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD / Dysthymia)

  • Definition: Chronic depressive symptoms lasting 2 years or more (1 year in children/adolescents).

  • Features: Symptoms are usually less severe than MDD but more persistent.

  • Example: Low mood most days, low energy, poor self-esteem, sleep/appetite disturbances.

3. Bipolar Depression

  • Definition: Depressive episodes occurring in the context of bipolar disorder (Type I or II).

  • Features: May include classic depressive symptoms, but patient has history of mania or hypomania.

  • Example: Periods of low mood, fatigue, and hopelessness alternating with hypomanic or manic episodes.

4. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

  • Definition: Depression occurring seasonally, typically in fall/winter, relieved in spring/summer.

  • Features: Often associated with low energy, hypersomnia, carbohydrate craving, weight gain.

  • Example: Feeling depressed and fatigued every winter, but fine in summer months.

5. Psychotic Depression

  • Definition: Severe depression accompanied by psychotic features (delusions or hallucinations).

  • Features: Usually mood-congruent (e.g., guilt, worthlessness, or nihilism).

  • Example: Believing you are responsible for a disaster or hearing voices telling you that you are worthless.

6. Postpartum Depression

  • Definition: Depression occurring within 4 weeks to 1 year after childbirth.

  • Features: Mood swings, irritability, feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, difficulty bonding with baby.

  • Example: Persistent sadness, fatigue, and hopelessness after giving birth.

7. Atypical Depression

  • Definition: A subtype of depression with mood reactivity (mood brightens in response to positive events).

  • Features: Increased appetite or weight, hypersomnia, leaden paralysis (heavy limbs), sensitivity to rejection.

  • Example: Feeling extremely fatigued and overeating, but temporarily cheered by good news.

8. Situational / Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood

  • Definition: Depressive symptoms triggered by a specific stressor, usually less severe than MDD.

  • Features: Emotional and behavioral response out of proportion to the stressor.

  • Example: Feeling down and withdrawn for months after job loss or a breakup.

 
 
 

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