Depression is a mental health condition that comes in many distinct forms, each with its own particular treatment strategies. As you consider the types of depression that you may be experiencing, it is important to understand what each entails and how the symptoms may manifest. Pursuing the most appropriate treatments for your individual case will give you the best opportunity to improve your mental health.
Treatments for depression are varied, but often include medications such as SSRIs or SNRIs. Psychotherapy sessions can also help to alleviate depressive symptoms. Some people may experience treatment-resistant depression, which means that their condition does not respond to traditional medications. Newer treatment options, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy at the TMS Center of New Jersey, may help provide relief for these cases.
Major depressive disorder is what most people think of when considering forms of depression. The hallmark symptoms of MDD are an all-consuming dark mood and a loss of interest in the activities you usually enjoy. You might also experience changes in your appetite and sleep schedule, as well as a general feeling of worthlessness.
To treat major depression, most doctors prescribe psychotherapy and medication. The team at the TMS Center of New Jersey could also discuss whether TMS therapy might be appropriate for you.
As the name suggests, persistent depressive disorder refers to a low mood that has lasted for at least two years. However, individuals with this variety of depression do not necessarily experience the all-consuming bleakness that characterizes major depression.
Persistent depressive disorder allows an individual to go about their day-to-day activities and function in what appears to be a normal way. The condition manifests as a lack of joy or a persistent low feeling even when things are going well. As with major depression, persistent depressive disorder is generally treated with medication and psychotherapy.
People with bipolar disorder do not experience the symptoms of depression all the time. Instead, they experience episodes of depression—sometimes deep depression—alternated with manic symptoms.
Manic symptoms manifest as the opposite of depressive symptoms, including an excess of energy and unrealistically high self-esteem. The manic episodes also often include extreme risk-taking behaviors. The medications that are available to treat bipolar disorder differ from those given for traditional types of depression, as they focus on stabilizing a person’s mood.
As the days shorten in the fall and winter, our exposure to sunlight is reduced. Sunlight is a very important factor that our bodies use for a variety of tasks. Whether it be regulating our natural rhythms or helping the body synthesize vitamin D, sunlight is integral to our physical and mental well-being.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs during the winter months when sunlight is lacking. Light therapy, which involves daily close exposure to an intense light source, is the preferred treatment for this condition. Traditional psychotherapy and medication can also be used to help treat SAD.
Perinatal depression includes both major and minor depressive episodes. These episodes may occur during pregnancy or in the first year following childbirth. When it occurs after giving birth, this variety of depression is referred to as postpartum depression.
One in seven women who give birth experience some form of perinatal depression. Psychotherapy and medication are often the prescribed treatments.
Knowing what depressive disorder you may be experiencing is essential to determining the best treatment possible for you. The skilled team at the TMS Center of New Jersey is ready to help you learn about the types of depression and how they can impact your life. Call today to schedule a consultation and take the next step in improving your mental health.
