Depression

What is Depression

It’s more than just “feeling blue” – if you’re experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and loss of interest in activities and/or relationships, you might be living with depression. Depression is a common mood disorder caused a number of factors – including genetic, biological, environmental and/or psychological – that can severely and negatively impact your daily life. Adults and children at any age can experience depression at any time. It can occur even in the absence of tough times, and even if everything seems to be “alright” in your world. It’s important to remember that depression is a mood disorder; it is not “your fault” and not always something you can “snap out of” on your own. If you’re ready to feel like yourself again, AtlantiCare is ready to help with treatment options like talk therapy, advanced therapeutic treatments, medication, and more.

Symptoms of Depression

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness, anxiety and/or “emptiness”
• Loss of interest in hobbies, work, school and connections
• Excessive weight gain or weight loss
• Trouble sleeping, or sleeping too much
• Fatigue, brain fog and/or concentration issues
• Physical symptoms, like headaches or gastrointestinal issues
• Feelings of wanting to hurt yourself

Types of Depression

Major Depressive Disorder: Sometimes referred to as MDD or clinical depression, this common mood disorder features persistent feelings of sadness and/or a lack of interest or pleasure in most activities that lasts for at least two weeks. MDD can seriously impact a person’s behavior, feelings, physical health and overall quality of life.

Persistent Depressive Disorder: Also referred to as PDD, this chronic form of depression typically presents with symptoms similar to but less severe than Major Depressive Disorder, including a constant low, sad mood that persists for least two years.

Seasonal Affective Disorder: SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, is a type of seasonal depression that usually manifests during the fall and/or winter months and resolves in spring or early summer. Symptoms are similar to those caused by Major Depressive Disorder, including low mood or sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating and/or feelings of hopelessness.

Medication or Substance Use-Induced Depression: This mood disorder is a direct result of the impact that substances like drugs or alcohol or certain medications have on the brain. Substance Use-Induced or Medication-Induced Depression can develop during or soon after intoxication or withdrawal, or shortly after starting or stopping a medication.