Right now, there are millions of people who are suffering an episode of depression. Many of these people have symptoms so severe that they are not able to function normally. This is what doctors call major depression. At this level the sufferer needs professional help. A person in this state of major depression will sleep and eat irregularly and feel hopeless and worthless. S/he will have difficulty concentrating or making decisions and will be unable to gather up enough energy to do anything. Thoughts of death and suicide are common at this level.
The mind tends to be full of negative thoughts which leads to a disinclination to do anything or even take an interest in happenings around.
Of course, as with all health problems there are various degrees of severity and it is possible to have minor levels of depression whereby the problem is more manageable. With help it is possible to function even though feeling bad about themselves and their lives.
There are various forms of depressive illness. Some people use the terms interchangeably as though they are all part and parcel of the same illness. Others use terms which they consider to be “better” to use because of the stigma attached to Depression which is a mental illness and therefore a “no-no”. Let me list a few of the terms:
Clinical Depression This results in a depressive episode lasting for two weeks or more. A person suffering from Clinical Depression is unable to function in a way which is normal. leading him to state that he doesn’t feel like himself any more. Takes no pleasure in former interests.
Manic Depression. These days this tends to be referred to as Bipolar Disorder. It goes in cycles through mania to depression and back. Both ends (or poles) need not be as severe as one another and therefore not recognised until diagnosed. The length of the cycles vary from person to person.
Chronic Depression maybe called Dysthymia. This is a depressive episode which lasts for at least two years and returns maybe after short intervals.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) It involves worries and fears to such a level that they become overwhelming and block normal everyday activity.
Endogenous Depression arises from within and is experienced for no apparent reason. This may be referred to as biological depression and is believed to arise from a chemical imbalance.
Situational Depression results from a situation or event such as redundancy, ending of a relationship, death of a loved one. This happens at a very stressful time and can usually be worked through with counselling and/or drug treatments.
Seasonally Affective Disorder (SAD) A depression which occurs at a particular time of year that varies with the individual. It will often occur during the winter months which is why it is called winter depression or winter blues. It is repeated each year.
Psychotic Depression. This is a major disorder and often involves hallucinations and delusions. Also displays paranoia and hypochondria. These symptoms are in addition to those of Clinical Depression.
Melancholic Depression. A subcategory of Clinical Depression. Loss of interest in all things. Generally takes no pleasure in events around. Not sleeping, no appetite and therefore producing weight loss, feelings of uncalled for guilt.
Catatonic Depression. Shown by disturbance of motor behaviour. The patient may remain motionless or move about in a vigorous but random manner. May not speak – either because of inability or from choice. May display peculiar movements. A tendency to repeat the speech or movement of others.
As you will see, even from this quick run down, it is difficult to categorise an individual illness. For this reason it is essential that a sufferer be encouraged to consult with the relevant medical practitioner.
