About Depression

Learn about the signs, symptoms and causes of depression.

Types of Depression

A depressive disorder can manifest itself in a number of ways, which is why it’s important for mental health professionals to develop targeted treatments for certain types of depression. A greater understanding of depression and its different forms is a great first step towards getting help. Some common diagnoses include:

Major (Clinical) Depression

Major depression is perhaps the most common manifestation of the condition, which involves a persistent feeling of sadness or lack of interest in usual activities. Both exposure to stressful life events and genetic factors are associated with the onset of a major depressive disorder. Symptoms are debilitating, affecting almost every aspect of a person’s social and professional life.

Melancholia

Melancholia is a severe subtype of major depression, where a person is unable to find pleasure in positive things, with little or no improvements to mood in response to positive events.

Dysthymic Disorder (Persistent Depressive Disorder)

Much like major depression, dysthymic disorder presents similar symptoms but on a persistent basis. Those diagnosed with this type of depression endure milder symptoms for a prolonged period of time.

Perinatal Depression

Perinatal or postpartum depression, is a common condition affecting mothers during pregnancy or after the birth of a baby. Sufferers can feel overwhelmed or unable to cope with their new role as a parent. This type of depression can have a severe impact on the mother-child relationship, rouse intense feelings of sadness and guilt.

Psychotic Depression

Those who suffer with major psychotic depression often lose touch with reality, and episodes of psychosis can involve severe hallucinations, delusions and paranoia. Psychotic depression often occurs in conjunction with bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder.

Causes of Depression

Genetics and Biochemical Factors

Family history
Brain chemistry (serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine)
Low self-esteem
Self-criticism or perfectionism
Low self-worth
Body dysmorphia
Eating disorders
Sensitivity to criticism

Bullying and Discrimination

Peer rejection
Cyberbullying
Physical and verbal abuse
Racism and bigotry
Physical health problems
Hormonal imbalance
Chronic health conditions
Injury and immobilisation
Terminal illness

Life Events and Trauma

Job loss
Retirement
Moving house
Physical and verbal abuse
Natural disaster
Sexual assault
Life threatening experiences
Witnessing death or injury
Unstable living conditions
Grief and loss
Death of a loved one
The end of a friendship/relationship
Moving away
Loneliness and isolation
Lack of close family ties
Separation
Living alone
Introversion
Language or cultural barriers
Geographic isolation
Retirement
Starting a new job or moving schools
Fear of rejection

Drug Use

Substance abuse
Medication side effects

Family or Relationship Breakdown

Family suffering from mental illness
Separation and divorce
Friendship conflict
Parental conflict
Loss of intimacy

Signs and Symptoms

Depression presents itself in a myriad of ways. Experiences of the condition — whether subtle or severe — will depend on the individual. The diagnosis of depression can bear different meanings and consequences for sufferers, which is why a ‘one size fits all’ model should be rejected. Nonetheless, here are some common physical, behavioural and psychological indicators of depression:

Physical Symptoms

Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Headaches and nausea
Fatigue, low energy
Appetite and/or weight changes
Feeling sick or run down
Loss of libido

Behavioural Symptoms

Social withdrawal or isolation
Substance dependence or abuse
Difficulties with work (employment/school)
Participating less in usual activities
Concentration difficulties
Lack of motivation
Frequent crying

Psycholigical Symptoms

Anger, irritability
Pessimism or hopelessness
Misery or sadness
Guilt
Mental exhaustion
Lack of pleasure
Anxiety
Detachment or apathy
Suicidal thoughts