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Depressive Disorders
People with depressive disorders, commonly referred to as simply depression, experience a sad, empty, or irritable mood accompanied by physical and cognitive changes that are severe or persistent enough to interfere with daily functioning. Some will only experience one depressive episode in their lifetime, but for most, depressive disorder recurs. Without treatment, episodes may last a few months to several years.
Those with depression lose interest or pleasure in activities and experience excessive fatigue, appetite changes, sleep disturbances, indecision, and poor concentration. Suicidal thinking or behavior can also occur.
There are many types of depressive disorders, including:
- Major depressive disorder: Severe depressive symptoms that last for at least two weeks
- Prenatal depression (during pregnancy) and postpartum depression (after childbirth): Together known as perinatal depression
- Persistent depressive disorder (also known as dysthymia): Depressive symptoms less severe than in major depressive disorder, but may last longer (at least two years)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Depression recurring for a few months every year around the change of seasons (typically in winter)
- Major depressive disorder with symptoms of psychosis: Severe depression that comes with delusions and hallucinations
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Severe depression recurring one to two weeks before the start of the menstrual period
