If more people became aware of what depression really is, the signs and symptoms, and understood that anyone can have it no matter how good their life seems, the world would be a better place. The fact of the matter is most people do not actually understand it. Depression is seen as sadness and something people can choose to not have. I guarantee you if those who suffer from depression could actually choose happiness, they would.
Everyone who has depression experiences it differently than the next person. The symptoms, way it is dealt with, and what it does to people can be completely different from one person to the next. Here are the seven different types of depression:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)- A mood disorder generally referred to as clinical depression.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)- Not as severe as MDD, but the symptoms are pervasive and long-lasting.
- Bipolar Depression- A mood disorder characterized by slightly elevated moods, mania, and periods of extremely bad depression. The periods of depression can last minutes to months at a time.
- Postpartum Depression (PPD)- Significant hormonal shifts from giving birth that brings about depression. PPD symptoms are more severe, long-lasting, and more than just the “baby blues”.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)- Depression brought about from a menstrual cycle.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)- Believed to be triggered by a disturbance in the normal circadian rhythm of the body and is prevalent in different seasons depending on the person.
- Atypical Depression- A type of depression that does not follow the typical presentation of depression. This is shown by someone being in a depressive episode but perking up immediately to a positive event.
Each of these types of depression are different, bring different symptoms, and affect many people around the world. It is important to know there is much more to all seven than what is written above and need to be researched by everyone. It is important to understand different types of depression, what they do to those suffering, and how to get them help. If you research “the 7 different types of depression” you will find an article that explains each and the best ways to help.
I was never one to suffer from depression until recently. About 6 months ago I was diagnosed with depression and it has been extremely difficult. Sometimes my depressive episodes would last for an hour and sometimes they lasted for two months. I did not even know I was struggling with this until my best friend spoke to me. She pointed out what seemed to be going on and suggested I go to a doctor. Without that push I would have never even known I needed help. Once diagnosed, I began getting the help I needed. I also was able to learn about depression and what I needed to do to keep myself safe during the depressive episodes. For me, I was able to learn the signs that presented right before a bad episode and kept myself surrounded by friends. Oftentimes, I would not allow myself to be alone at all. I figured out what my depression stems from, at least I believe I did, and removed myself as far from the trigger as possible. This has actually helped me a lot.
If you believe you are struggling from depression please go to a doctor and find out if that is what is going on. It is important to get diagnosed so you can find out what your best options are on the path to getting better. Depending on what you are diagnosed with, there are different, but all amazing, options that will best help you. Try talking to someone you trust and help them understand what you are going through. It is important for someone you trust to know you are suffering from depression so they can help you.
Remember, you are not crazy, dramatic, or sad. You cannot just choose to be happy or change your mindset yourself. Ignore the people who say those things to you and get help.
You are strong, a fighter, and you are going to make it.
Kokonaomi
