Doctor's Notes on Clinical Depression
Clinical depression describes feelings of sadness and other symptoms that last for more than a couple of weeks in a row and make it hard to get through the day. The term clinical depression is usually used to distinguish the illness of depression from less intense feelings of sadness, gloom, or the blues. There are several different types of clinical depression including major depression, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder, or SAD), and psychotic depression.
Symptoms of clinical depression include depressed mood along with feeling sad or blue, crying spells, loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, significant appetite changes, significant weight changes, change in sleep patterns, agitation, irritability, fatigue or loss of energy, a tendency to isolate from friends and family, trouble concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, or thoughts of death or suicide.
Children with depression may also experience other symptoms including poor school performance, persistent boredom, frequent complaints of physical symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches, and in teens, more risk-taking behaviors and/or showing less concern for their own safety.
In the elderly, additional symptoms of depression may include diminished ability to think or concentrate, unexplained physical complaints (for example, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or muscle aches), or memory impairment (occurs in about 10% of those with severe depression).
What Is the Treatment for Clinical Depression?
Treatment for depression depends on the type of depressive disorder that is present as well as its severity. Certain treatments such as electroconvulsive therapy are reserved for severe cases that do not respond well to antidepressant medications. Typical treatments may include one or a combination of the following:
- Psychotherapy or counseling, including individual or group therapy as well as family therapy
- Lifestyle changes to promote good nutrition, sufficient sleep, and regular exercise
- Antidepressant medications
- Phototherapy
- Electroconvulsive therapy
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation
- Treatment of any concurrent illnesses or conditions
Depression : Signs & Symptoms Quiz
QuestionDepression is a(n) __________ .
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Antidepressant Medications
There are many types of depression such as clinical depression, major depression, seasonal affective depression, dysthymia, and bipolar disorder. There are a variety of depression medications, and their effectiveness may vary from patient to patient. Examples of the types of depression medications include atypical antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Side effects, drug interactions, and warnings and precautions should be reviewed prior to taking any medication. -
Depression Symptoms and Signs
Some of the symptoms and signs of depression include suicidal thoughts, hopelessness, and sadness. Get more information about the different types of depression and their various signs and symptoms. -
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression occurs in 10%-20% of women after having a baby. Symptoms and signs include frequent crying, sleep disturbance, and weight loss. Treatment may involve psychotherapy and medication. -
Seasonal Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder, SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is tied to seasons of the year. Symptoms include depressed mood, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and poor concentration. Treatment may incorporate bright-light therapy and antidepressants. -
Substance Abuse
People abuse substances such as drugs, alcohol, and tobacco for varied and complicated reasons, but it is clear that our society pays a significant cost. Symptoms and signs of substance abuse include forgetfulness, frequent hangovers, having blackouts, and getting into trouble with the law. Treatment typically involves counseling and prescription medications to control withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. -
Suicidal Thoughts
Suicidal thoughts may be brought about by a sudden, negative change in life circumstances, substance abuse, or even sleep deprivation. Suicidal thoughts are troubling, particularly if they're accompanied by substance abuse or depression. If you or someone you know is considering suicide and are unsure how to deal with it, call a suicide hotline, like 1-800-SUICIDE, to get help. -
What Are the Four Types of Depression?
The four types of depression are situational, biological, psychological and existential, each of which has its own primary causes. These classifications often overlap and are meant to add insight to diagnosis and treatment.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.