When most people talk about mental health, they stop at “depression.” But there are actually a handful of different types of depression, most of which fall under the umbrella of major depressive disorder (MDD.) This term is used interchangeably with clinical depression. It is typically considered to be a lowering of mood, along with other symptoms, that last two weeks or more.
Types of Major Depressive Disorder
For those who are suffering as well as for healthcare professionals, it is wise to focus on the subtype of depression you are dealing with, in order to provide better care and increased odds of recovery. Some subtypes of depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, include:
- Persistent depressive disorder: MDD that lasts at least for two years. There may be small periods of time where depression is lessened, but the overall lowered mood must last two years to be included here.
- Postpartum depression: A serious version of depression that may impact both the life of the mother and child, postpartum depression is MDD after pregnancy or delivery.
- Psychotic depression: With this disorder, the person suffers from both depression and psychosis. This is not to disparage them; people cannot control psychosis and they deserve help.
- Seasonal affective disorder: Depression of the winter months, returns at the same time of year, and may be impacted by low light levels and vitamin deficiencies.
- Bipolar disorder: Bipolar disorder is a combination of periods of depression and periods of mania, which is experienced as a highly positive mood, but may also negatively affect the person’s life.
All of these types of MDD may be experienced as mild, moderate, or severe.
Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder
When someone says that they are experiencing depression, what do they mean?
It is often hard for those with mental illnesses to fully express the misery or other types of pain that they feel. Depression may feel like sadness, hopelessness, emptiness, worthlessness or guilt. There are other symptoms of MDD, according to the Mayo Clinic, including:
- Anger, irritation and frustration
- Loss of interest in hobbies or other pleasurable activities
- Sleep disturbances, over and under sleeping
- Lack of energy, feeling like you must expend effort
- Weight loss or weight gain that is otherwise unexplained
- Slow thinking or slow body movements
- Trouble thinking, remembering and deciding things
- Focusing on past failures and blaming oneself
- Physical problems that can’t be explained, such as back pain, headaches
Testing & Psychotherapy
One of the most effective ways to diagnose and treat MDD, respectively, is through neuropsychological testing and psychotherapy, areas of specialty at Chicago Mind Solutions. Psychotherapy or talk therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention that addresses mental health conditions and symptoms.
Left untreated, MDD can be debilitating, but fortunately there are treatment options to help individuals manage symptoms and enjoy good 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.
