It is normal to feel down or sad from time to time, especially after receiving bad news or dealing with a loss. However, there is a difference between feeling sad on occasion and being depressed. Seasons changing, hormonal changes and significant life changes can lead to feelings of depression. However, a depressive disorder is a mental health condition where the individual experiences persistently depressed moods and a lack of interest in life that impairs their daily life. Individuals struggling with depression often need professional treatment to learn to manage their condition and mental health. This is why the importance of understanding the types of depression cannot be overstated.
Today, it is not uncommon for people with depression to also struggle with addiction. The two conditions often go hand in hand and negatively impact each other. At Northpoint Nebraska, we take an integrated approach to treatment and mental illness and tackle the condition from all angles. We provide robust addiction treatments and therapy programs to help our patients heal and achieve lasting recovery. If you are struggling, our depression treatment program can provide the care and support you need. Call 888.351.3834 today to get started or learn more about our program.
The Importance of Understanding The Different Types of Depression
There are many misconceptions surrounding depression and the people who struggle with it. Contrary to what some think, it is not as simple as having a bad day or feeling gloomy when the weather is bad. It is normal to experience these things. However, when you feel sad most of the time, and it gets in the way of your daily life, it could be a depressive disorder. Another thing many do not know about this mental illness is that there are different types of depression. The importance of understanding types of depression plays a critical role in treatment and recovery. Knowing the various types and which one is affecting you informs your needs and the therapy programs that will benefit you.
The Different Types of Depression
The importance of understanding types of depression is that it can ensure someone gets the proper help they need. Certain types of depression can require different forms of treatment and therapy. Battling any type of depression is overwhelming, but with professional care, individuals can learn to manage their mental health.
The different types of depression include:
- Major depression – Individuals with this type tend to feel depressed most of the time and for most days of the week. They may lose interest in activities, have trouble sleeping, feel tired, and struggle with feelings of guilt or worthlessness.
- Postpartum depression – This type affects women in the weeks and months after childbirth. After giving birth, new mothers can struggle with major depression because of the significant life changes and extreme changes in hormones.
- Psychotic depression – People experiencing this type have the symptoms of major depression alongside psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations, paranoia, or delusions.
- Seasonal affective disorder – This is when someone experiences major depression during a specific season, typically during winter months when the days are shorter and there is less sunlight.
- Persistent depressive disorder – Individuals with this type have struggled with depression for two or more years. They may have symptoms like low self-esteem, sleeping too much or too little, lack of energy, and feeling hopeless.
- Bipolar disorder – Sometimes called manic depression, it is a mood disorder characterized by waves of intense highs and manic moods followed by depression.
For those struggling with any of these types of depression, the best thing to do is seek professional help. Depression is not something people can typically overcome on their own. Our team can provide the support and resources you need to find healing.
Start Your Recovery Today at Northpoint Nebraska
At Northpoint Nebraska, we recognize the importance of understanding depression. We provide a depression treatment program in addition to cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy that can help you and your loved one recover. To get started on your treatment and healing journey, call us at 888.351.3834 or reach out to Northpoint Nebraska online.