What Are The Initial Signs Of Depression?

Q: What are the initial signs of depression?

A:Considering that there are three common types of depression which include: * major depression (clinical depression) * manic depression (bipolar disorder) * dysthymia (dysthymic disorder) We shall address each one as best possible and go over the early signs and symptoms of each. Major depression Also known as clinical depression or unipolar depression, is classified as a type of mental disorder that is usually diagnosed when a patient displays any of the symptoms below for a period averaging about a few to 6 months. It's often times characterized by the following signs: * persistent feelings of sadness * feeling hopeless or helpless * loss of interest in usual activities or activities once enjoyed Manic depression This is a major mental health problem. People diagnosed with manic depression tend to experience mood swings from periods of severe depression to periods of elation known as mania. In its early and latter

stages, it is often characterized by the following signs: -An overly inflated self-esteem -A decreased need for rest and sleep -Increased distractibility and irritability Dysthymic Disorder This disorder is characterized by chronic depression, but with less severity than a major depression. The essential symptom for Dysthymic disorder is an almost daily depressed mood for at least two years, but without the necessary criteria for a major depression. Being as though this is quite similar to clinical depression, dysthymia could be characterized by the following signs: -Having a poor appetite or overeating -Insomnia or hypersomnia