Depression

Many people tend to see depression as just feeling sad but there is so much more involved with depression. Depression is something that affects a person’s brain chemistry. Someone that has clinical depression typically has a lower level of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine; which are all neurotransmitters responsible for mood. Depression is something that can affect a person mentally, emotionally, and physically. Depression typically looks like feeling sad or unmotivated for most of the day for a couple weeks.

Symptoms of Depression

Low motivation
Isolation from others
Feeling numb
Hopelessness
Trouble sleeping
Excessive sleeping
Low energy
Changes in appetite
Changes in body weight
Body aches and pains
Thoughts of self-harm and/or suicide
Shame/guilt
Lack of concentration
Loss of interest in activities
Persistent feelings of sadness
Anger/irritability
Tearful/crying
Lack of self esteem
Ruminating thoughts

Reference: Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition

Different Depressive Disorders Treated

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

Severe, recurrent temper outbursts, irritability, and anger.

Major Depressive Disorder

Depressed mood with other depressive symptoms that must be present for most of the day, for at least 2 weeks.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Depressed mood with other depressive symptoms that must be present for most of the day, almost every day for at least 2 years.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Irritable, depressive and anxious symptoms that occur during the premenstrual phase of a woman’s monthly cycle. These symptoms dissipate once menstruation begins or shortly after.