Previously, we wrote about persistent depression, and today we turn our attention to atypical depression.
Atypical depression causes uncommon symptoms of depression. The American Psychiatric Association refers to atypical depression as major depression with atypical features. One of the most recognizable atypical features is mood reactivity, which causes mood improvements following positive events. This rarely occurs in typical cases of depression.
Here we explain how atypical depression is diagnosed, the symptoms, and available treatments.
Symptoms of Atypical Depression
The most distinguishing symptoms of atypical depression are often the opposite of what is seen in typical depression cases, including:
- Mood reactivity
- Increased appetite or weight gain
- Fatigue
- Heaviness in the legs and arms
- Increased sensitivity or intense reaction to criticism and rejection
How is Atypical Depression Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of atypical depression is based on experiencing at least two of the above symptoms. Your doctor will first rule out possible health conditions such as thyroid disease. They will then likely refer you to a behavioral health specialist to diagnose possible mental health conditions. A final diagnosis is made using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
What Causes Atypical Depression?
While there are no known causes of atypical depression, it could be related to the following:
- An impairment in how chemicals carry brain signals throughout the body
- Genetics
- Trauma such as childhood events or abuse
- Grief
- Substance abuse
- Stress
- Serious illness
Treatment of Atypical Depression
Most patients respond well to treatments which can include:
- Medications: Although some people might not respond to medications, antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help control atypical depression symptoms.
- Talk Therapy: Therapy with a therapist or counselor is very effective in helping you cope with your symptoms. Through discussions regarding your feelings, you can work with a therapist to identify unhealthy thoughts and learn problem-solving skills to help you maintain positive views. It also addresses stressors, triggers and contributing factors such as traumatic events to help you accept events and allow yourself to gain more control over your life.
- Lifestyle: Changes to your lifestyle are often recommended, such as avoiding recreational drugs and alcohol, increasing physical activity, or learning mindful and stress-reducing techniques.
It is very common to use a combination of treatments to help you improve outcomes to overcome your depression or learn to manage it more effectively.
When to Seek Help
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of atypical depression, it is important to speak to your doctor right away.
As with any mental health issues, it is possible to see your condition worsen or even lead to other mental health disorders without treatment. Depression and atypical depression can also increase the risk of turning to alcohol or drugs to help cope. Unhealthy eating habits, as well as increasing anxiety are also possible risks of not seeking treatment. If you are experiencing increased sensitivity or intense reaction to criticism and rejection, this can impact your ability to work and maintain healthy relationships. In the worst-case scenario, without treatment, your depression can escalate, leading to thoughts of suicide. Help is available, allowing you to receive effective treatment to improve your quality of life.
The Chicago Mind Solutions Difference
Chicago Mind Solutions works with individuals, offering neuropsychological testing and non-invasive treatment for many mental health conditions. For more information about our treatments and teletherapy options, please contact us at (224) 723-5050 or email info@chicagomindsolutions.com.
