Depression, an increasingly prevalent mental health disorder that affects a substantial percentage of people around the world, is a severe and potentially incapacitating condition that can have profound effects on well-being and daily functioning. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and worthlessness, often accompanied by a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.

By gaining a more in-depth knowledge of the different types of depression, people can better identify the warning signs and symptoms in themselves and in their loved ones, enabling them to take proactive steps in seeking the appropriate treatment and support needed to manage their condition effectively.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness and a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed. People with MDD may experience a variety of symptoms, including:

• Persistent sadness or irritability
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
• Changes in appetite and weight
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Treatment for MDD often includes a combination of medication, such as antidepressants and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), previously known as dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression that lasts for at least two years. Symptoms of PDD are less severe than those of MDD but are more enduring. People with PDD may experience:

• Low self-esteem
• Difficulty making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Low energy or fatigue
• Poor appetite or overeating
• Trouble sleeping

Treatment for PDD often involves a combination of medication and therapy. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can also be beneficial.

Bipolar disorder is a condition characterized by extreme mood swings, including episodes of depression and mania. Bipolar depression refers to the depressive episodes experienced by individuals with bipolar disorder. Symptoms of bipolar depression can be similar to those of MDD, but individuals may also experience:

• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of sadness or emptiness

Treatment for bipolar depression often includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications and psychotherapy. It’s essential for individuals with bipolar disorder to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their condition effectively.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, usually during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight. Symptoms of SAD can include:

• Low energy
• Overeating, especially craving carbohydrates
• Weight gain
• Excessive sleepiness
• Social withdrawal

Treatment for SAD may include light therapy, which involves exposure to a bright light that mimics natural sunlight, as well as medication and psychotherapy.

Atypical depression is a subtype of major depressive disorder with specific symptoms that differentiate it from typical depression. People with atypical depression may experience:

• Increased appetite or weight gain
• Sleeping excessively
• Heaviness in the arms or legs
• Sensitivity to rejection
• Mood reactivity (mood brightens in response to positive events)

Treatment for atypical depression often involves medication and psychotherapy. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also help alleviate symptoms.

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that occurs after childbirth. It is more severe than the “baby blues,” which many new mothers experience. Symptoms of postpartum depression can include:

• Severe mood swings
• Excessive crying
• Difficulty bonding with the baby
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Loss of appetite or eating more than usual
• Insomnia or sleeping too much
• Overwhelming fatigue
• Intense irritability and anger
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby

Treatment for postpartum depression often includes medication and psychotherapy. Support from family and friends is also crucial in helping new mothers manage their symptoms.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes significant emotional and physical symptoms in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Symptoms of PMDD can include:

• Severe mood swings
• Irritability or anger
• Depression
• Anxiety or tension
• Decreased interest in usual activities
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns

Treatment for PMDD may include lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, as well as medication and psychotherapy.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare professional. Treatment options vary depending on the type of depression and the individual’s needs, but they often include a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

In addition to professional treatment, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet and maintaining a strong support network can help manage symptoms of depression.

At Arbour Hospital, we seek to increase awareness and knowledge about these various types of depressive disorders, to create a support network in our communities. We offer adult and adolescent programs, for those struggling with any of the depressive disorders listed above, as well as those dealing with substance abuse. Call us today at 833-322-2687, or schedule an assessment online to see if our programs may be right for you. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, CALL 988 or get to the nearest emergency rooms.

For physical health emergencies, CALL 911 or get to the nearest emergency room.

Arbour Hospital is a behavioral health center that offers services to adults and adolescents alike as a way to achieve long-term wellness and sobriety. We treat primary psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. We also constantly strive to meet the needs of our communities with treatment that address individualized behavioral health needs.

Located in Jamaica Plain, MA, we’re a fully licensed and accredited center that provides exceptional care. Our team of professionals provide patients and their families with high-quality care and service excellence across a continuum of specialized behavioral health services. Some of our services include our adult psychiatric, adult substance abuse and adolescent partial hospitalization program.

Our facility has a patient-focused approach to behavioral healthcare. To schedule a no-cost assessment or for more information, please call 1-833-322-2687.