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Terms you might hear
Everyone's experience of depression is different.
However, several specific types of depression
have been identified.
- Reactive
depression
This type of depression is triggered by a traumatic,
difficult or stressful event, and people affected
will feel low, anxious, irritable, an even angry.
Reactive depression can also follow prolonged
period of stress and can begin even after the
stress is over.
- Endogenous
depression
Endogenous depression is not always triggered
by an upsetting or stressful event. Those affected
by this common form of depression will experience
physical symptoms such as weight change, tiredness,
sleeping problems and low mood, as well as poor
concentration an low self-esteem.
- Manic
depression (also known as bipolar depression)
People with manic depression experience mood
swings, with 'highs' of excessive energy and
elation, to 'lows' of utter despair and lethargy.
Delusions of hallucinations can also occur.
Most people with this condition have their first
episode in their late teens or early twenties. Visit the Manic Depression Fellowship for more information
- Seasonal
Affective Disorder (SAD)
This type of depression generally coincides
with the approach of winter. It is often linked
to shortening of daylight hours and lack of
sunlight. Symptoms will include wanting to sleep
excessively and cravings for carbohydrates or
sweet foods. Special 'light boxes' can be used
to treat this kind of depression. For more information about SAD visit our publications page to download a free leaflet or go to our community links for a list of organisations.
- Post-natal depression
Many new mothers will experience baby blues; mood
swings, crying spells and feelings of loneliness
three or four days after giving birth. Post-natal
depression will however last for much longer
and will include symptoms such as panic attacks,
sleeping difficulties, having overwhelming fears
about dying, and feelings of inadequacy and
being unable to cope.
Post-natal depression is a common condition,
affecting between 10% and 20% of new mothers.
Starting two or three weeks after delivery,
it often develops slowly, making it more difficult
to diagnose. Often it goes unrecognised by the
woman herself, or by her family.
For more information
about post-natal depression visit our publications page to download a free leaflet or go to our community links for a list of organisations.
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