Most Common Types of Depressive Disorders Or Clinical Depression

When it is said that an individual is suffering from depression, this is a general term that is typically used to describe the feelings of sadness or hopelessness that some individuals may experience on a regular basis, however, when an individual is diagnosed with depression they are typically diagnosed with one of several specific forms recognized within the field of psychiatry and medicine.

The most common forms of depression that are diagnosed are called "major depressive disorder" and "dysthymic disorder". While some types of depression are more serious than others, all forms of depression experienced regularly that affect an individuals daily activities typically require some form of medical treatment to overcome the symptoms.

Major Depressive Disorder and Dysthymic Disorder are the most Common Types Depression Diagnosed

One of the most common types of clinical depression that is diagnosed is called "major depressive disorder". While major or clinical depression can have numerous symptoms, the primary criteria for a this diagnosis is when the individual experiences a loss of interest or depressed state of mind the majority of the day, nearly every day and for a period of two weeks or longer.

Other symptoms of this type of depression are feelings on a daily basis that can include, chronic fatigue, low self esteem or feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and insomnia, or sleeping excessively. Some individuals will also experience a lack of concentration, memory loss, significant irritability, and suicidal thoughts or tendencies.

Dysthymia or "chronic depression" is also a very common form of depression but is less severe than major depressive disorder. While this type of depression causes distress and can decrease the ability to function at ones best, it is not as crippling to an individual as major depression can be.

The symptoms of chronic depression or dysthymia are very much the same as major depression, but are less intense in severity. However, the symptoms of dysthymia tend to be chronic and typically last for extended periods of time that may include two years or even longer.

Psychotic Depression and Post Partum Depression

Psychotic depression is one of the most serious forms of depression and is the condition that coexists with another serious type of depression or mental disorder and occurs when an individual experiences periods of psychosis with depression that include a "break from reality", delusions, or hallucinations.

Individuals with psychotic depression will have symptoms that may include hearing or seeing things that are not there, delusions of grandeur, and unrealistic fears or irrational thoughts. This type of depression carries a high risk factor for suicide and typically requires hospitalization for treatment and the usage of mood stabilizers that include antipsychotic and antidepressant medications.

A diagnosis of postpartum depression or "PPD" may be made when a women experiences a severe state of depression within four weeks after giving birth. Post partum depression is physical and emotional changes that are experienced shortly after giving birth that include a chemical change in the body due the rapid drop in the level of the hormones progesterone and estrogen.

While these are some of the most commonly diagnosed forms of depression, there are many other types of depression with their own specific symptoms. Fortunately, it is possible to treat all forms of depression successfully when properly diagnosed.

INTRODUCING: How To Get Natural Depression, Anxiety and Stress Relief! No Drugs - No Potions - No Hypnotherapy! Wholly Natural Method and 100% GUARANTEED. Visit: http://www.HowToStopDepression.org

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.