It's normal to feel down once in a while, but if you're sad most of the time and it affects your daily life, you may have depression. It's a condition that most MD’s treat with just prescription medication and is easily misdiagnosed if the patient only tells them half the story because they are embarrassed, or don’t think there happiness is a concern too. Even if they do send you to a mental health specialist to help figure out the type of depression you have, like they are supposed to before they give you any drug treatment, would you feel comfortable talking to a therapist as well, and would you know everything that you are supposed to tell them? There are many different types of depression. Events in your life cause some, and chemical changes in your brain cause others. Thankfully, it's a condition you can treat with a holistic approach, talking to a therapist, or by making changes to your lifestyle. All things Blue Orchid can help you with. The diagnosis of which kind of depression you have is crucial in deciding the right treatment for you. Types of Depression:Major DepressionMajor Depression is also known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). You might have this type if you feel depressed most of the time for most days of the week. Your doctor might diagnose you with major depression if you have five or more of the symptoms listed below, on most days for 2 weeks or longer. (At least one of the symptoms must be a depressed mood or loss of interest in activities.)
Persistent Depressive DisorderIf you have depression that lasts for 2 years or longer, it's called persistent depressive disorder. It used to be known as dysthymia or chronic depression.
Bipolar DisorderSomeone with bipolar disorder, which used to be called "manic depression," has mood episodes that range from extremes of high energy with an "up" mood, to low "depressive" periods. When you're in the low phase, you'll have the symptoms of major depression. When you’re in the high phase you feel excited and don’t have a care in the world. People often don’t realize that the high feeling is a problem too, and therefore do not bring it up to a doctor, and are often just diagnosed with major depression.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Psychotic Depression
Postpartum Depression Women who have major depression in the weeks and months after childbirth may have postpartum depression.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
'Situational' DepressionThis isn't a technical term in psychiatry. But you can have a depressed mood when you're having trouble managing a stressful event in your life, such as a death in your family, a divorce, or losing your job. Your doctor may call this "stress response syndrome."
Atypical Depression This type is different than the persistent sadness of typical depression. If you have atypical depression, a positive event can temporarily improve your mood.
Depression and Anxiety often times go hand in hand. If you feel any of these symptoms you should let your Doctor know ASAP. Modern medicine will add anxiety medication to your antidepressant. Traditional Medicine will look at additional lifestyle changes, such as adding meditation or a mantra to your routine to help control the attacks. References:
http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-types
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AuthorBlue Orchid Clinic owner Brittany, has put this blog together to discuss health topics and alternatives to your traditional care regimen. Discussions will also include useful information for everyday life as well. |