What is atypical depression? It is a form of depression that does not differ too much from major depression, but it does differ enough to be noted as a separate form. Symptoms that might be noticed in a person suffering from this form of depression could be poor eating habits, poor sleeping habits, fatigue, weight gain, and feel their emotions are more or less affected by outside events. This depression lasts for different periods of time depending on the person who may be suffering from it; it could be for a few weeks, or it could be something they live with every day of their lives. It often starts out in teenagers who may continue to live with it if it goes on untreated, whereas other forms of depression usually do not occur until a little later in life. The cause of this form of depression is not entirely certain. As is true with many forms of depression, research is still being done to find out the true cause. As far as atypical depression goes, it is thought that a problem with the thyroid might be related as a person suffering from with will often crave carbohydrates, which can lead to the weight gain.
Do you suffer from atypical depression? It is possible that if a person suffers from two or more of the above mentioned symptoms, they might just be suffering from it; however, it might be possible the person is suffering from another form of depression. There are many different forms of a depression a person could be suffering from. It is important that anyone who believes they might have some form of depression; they seek help from a professional. Atypical depression, just like any of the other forms, can make living a very difficult thing to do. If not dealt with properly, it can take control of your life when it should be you who has full control of their life. There are many therapists and counselors out there who can help you work through your depression. They can prescribe a medication or a type of therapy that can help you gain more control of your emotions.
Is there a cure? Being as depression, in general, is not fully understood, there is not really a cure out there for it; however, there are treatments available for those who want to improve their lives and gain more control of their own emotions. One way is through online counseling with an online therapist. Online therapy can help you work through your depression in a safe and secure manner. An online counselor can work with you even if you are unable to leave your house. There are medications and therapies out there that can help you work through your depression so that you can live a better life. Now, every individual is different, and depending on the person's system and what might be causing this onset of atypical depression, different medications and/ or treatments will be prescribed. In some cases, it might take trying a few different types of medication before the professional and the patient will find the right one that works. It takes patience and time, but those who wish to live a better life and make an effort to stay with the program and/or medication, will usually end up getting more control and living a better life as a result.
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While I was diagnosed with depression for 12 years ago (and certainly had it for much longer than that), only recently was I told that it was "atypical" depression. The way it was simply explained to me, Atypical Depression is Depression mixed with boughts of anxiety. I get anxious and the fight or flight feeling simply doesn't turn off the way it would in others (and I can make a BIG mountain out of a small hill...and it feels just as bad cause perception is reality).
You know that feeling that you have when you can't find your car in the parking lot and you think it has been stolen? You know that feeling of releaf when you see the car and how that anxiety starts to melt away? Imagine that feeling not turning off...almost like a car stuck in gear. Now mix that with depression. Special isn't it?
For me the answer is medication and counseling as my depression is both chemical and emotional. I have chemical depression with situational triggers, like being without a job. You need to work with a counselor to learn what is triggering your atypical depressive episodes. There is no shame in it. If you were lacking in iron, you wouldn't be embarrassed to take iron pills. If you need a drug in order to augment a chemical that is not present in your body or if you are in need of emotional support, there is no shame at all. I don't mind telling friends what I have or what I'm dealing with. I am proud that I am strong enough to do what I need to do. Everyone has their own challenges in life. Some are just harder to see than others. We are fortunate that we can work to overcome Atypical Depression. Stand Strong!!!
August 19, 2008 - 4:19pmThis Comment
Were you relieved to find an answer to what was going on inside of you? I am glad that you mentioned both medication and counseling. If you have anything that resembles a mental illness and medication can make it bearable enough that you can get through the day then it is good to take it. The counseling part helps you become more aware of who you are as a person.
It would be the same if you had diabities and you had to take insulin and watch your diet. If you forgo one of these, then the other does not work as well. Glad to hear you are taking care of yourself!
August 19, 2008 - 6:55pmThis Comment