Depression is a mental illness that has many different symptoms, types and risk factors. We’ve created the Teen Rehab Ultimate Guide to Depression to help you understand the basics of depression and how it can be treated.
The Different Types of Depression
Did you know that there are actually several different types of depression? Although they all involve an overwhelming feeling of sadness, they manifest themselves in various ways.
Major depressive disorder (also known as clinical depression) is the most common type of depression. Major depressive disorder can be diagnosed by a health professional when someone has been feeling unmotivated, sad and uninterested in the things and people they love for at least 2 consecutive weeks.
Dysthymia is a milder version of major depression that usually lasts for at least a year.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that comes and goes with the seasons and usually worsens around winter.
Manic depression (also known as bipolar disorder) is slightly different than other forms of depression as it also involves a manic component alongside periods of deep depression.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
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If you think you or your teen may be struggling with depression, there are several signs and symptoms to watch for. Your teen may seem uninterested in spending time with their friends or participating in activities that usually interest them. They may be sleeping all the time, or not at all. Your or your teen may also be experiencing physical symptoms of depression such as muscle tension, headaches or stomachaches.
Depression often causes people to be more irritable, angry or reckless than usual and people with depression may experience feelings of self-loathing and low self-esteem as well. Teens with depression often feel hopeless and that they cannot escape their depression and may engage in behaviors such as self-harm or drug abuse as a coping method.
Risk Factors for Depression
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, class or gender. However, there are some groups of people who are more susceptible to developing depression.
- People with a family history of depression
- People who have experienced family conflict or a major recent life change
- Those who have a history of substance abuse are also at a higher risk of developing depression due to the way that substances affect the brain’s natural chemistry
Living with depression can be difficult, isolating and frustrating. Fortunately, there are many different types of treatment available for those who are suffering.
People struggling with SAD or dysthymia often find that holistic treatments such as yoga, mindfulness and a healthy diet work well in treating depression. Your doctor or another professional may be able to help with depression by suggesting a medication or method of therapy such as counseling, dialectical behavior therapy or equine therapy.
Treatments for Depression
Depression is a mental illnesses that can affect people from any walk of life. If you think you or your teen is struggling with depression, be sure to reach out for help. With proper treatment, people with depression can live normal, fulfilling lives.
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