defining depression...

hi cherubs!

in continuation of our segment of learning about mental illnesses in the new year, today we are going to learn about the types of depression.

first off, we are going to start with defining depression...according to American Psychiatric Association:

"depression is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act."

depression affects nearly 17 million people in the United States. So if you think you're alone, you are most definitely not.

while not everyone deals with severe depression, the amount of depressive episodes someone has does not diminish the fact that they suffer from sadness and loneliness.

many people consider depression as a general term that encompasses a plethora of types. while depression can be used as an umbrella term, there are many different types that someone could struggle with. below we are going to discuss some of the most common types:

• major depressive disorder

the most common type of depression which is characterized by having at least one major depressive episode within a year.

• persistent depressive disorder

characterized by having persistent major depressive episodes that last two years or more. often feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, leading to serious condition. more prevalent in women than men.

• bipolar disorder

disorder characterized by manic episodes, where an elevated or irritated mood last for at least five days, followed by depressive episodes.

• seasonal depression

type of depression characterized by mood change as the seasons change. typically onset begins in autumn and continues through winter. rarely occurring in spring and summer.

• postpartum depression

depression characterized by hormonal imbalance after birth, lack of sleep, and transitioning into taking care of a new baby. severe type of 'baby blues.'

all bullet points summarized from: https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/facts-statistics-infographic#Types-of-depression

while these are some of the most common types of depression, that does not mean that you couldn't have a different type not listed. it is up to you to bring attention to your condition and talk to a professional about them before they become worse.

symptoms of depression:

• feelings of sadness linger for 2 weeks or more

• extreme irritability over minor things

• anxiety

• restlessness

• loss of interest in common activities

• fixation of past or mistakes

• thoughts of death or suicide

if you or someone you know are suffering from any of these symptoms please do not wait to contact someone about your condition. below are someone resources:

national suicide hotline: 1-800-273-8255

free crisis textline: 741741

if emergency, call 911

next, we are going to be discussing the treatment options of depression. while clinical depression is treatable, less than 50% of those struggling seek treatment, according to The WHO.

• most commonly, antidepressants

• along with, psychological counseling

• repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation

• light therapy

• electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

since we discussed that less than 50% of those dealing with depression seek out treatment and/or help, we are going to go over the complication that come with the lack of treatment.

• alcohol disorder from alcohol abuse (very similarly with drug abuse)

• headaches and other chronic aches and pains

• phobias, panic disorders, and anxiety attacks

• trouble with school and/or work

• family and relationship problems

• social isolation

• excess weight gain from eating disorders, causing the formation of type 2 diabetes

• self-mutilation

• attempted suicide or suicide

now, I know that was a lot to take in. but I think it's important information to understand! if you are dealing with any of the things that we discusses today, please do not be hesitant to reach out to someone that you trust or a medical professional that can offer you the proper help that you need.

remember, that it is okay to not be okay and that you are not a burden if you are dealing with any type of mental illness. you HAVE a mental illness, but that isn't your only personality trait. you are important and deserve to be taken care of.

stick around and learn some more about other types of mental disorders in the coming posts!!

see you soon,

xx Loryn