Dysthymia (Chronic Depression)
The dysthymia or chronic depression, affects between 3% and 6% of the general population and is characterized by the majority of symptoms in major depression. Symptoms of dysthymia last much longer, at least two years. The symptoms have been described as a “veil of sadness” that affects most activities. Possibly because of the duration of symptoms, patients with chronic depression do not show apparent changes in behavior or daily behavior, although they have less energy, general negativity, and a sense of dissatisfaction and hopelessness.
Double Depression
In a long-term study, most patients with dysthymia suffered at least one episode of major depression overlap with chronic depression (sometimes referred to as double depression) at some point in their lives. Some experts believe double depression should be considered as part of the natural course of dysthymia. Women can be more susceptible to depression doubled. In one study, more than one third of patients who recovered from dysthymia relapsed within five years.
Atypical Depression
People with atypical depression generally eat and sleep excessively, have a general sense of heaviness, and a very strong feeling of rejection.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal affective disorder is characterized by annual episodes of depression in fall or winter that remit in the spring and summer. In these times can be replaced by manic phases. Other symptoms include fatigue, tendency to overeat (particularly carbohydrates) or a winter sleep. However, it should be noted that seasonal changes affect all people, regardless of sex or if they have a disorder or not. Be slightly depressed during the winter does not mean you have a seasonal depression. Living in a northern country with long winters increase the risk of depression.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
The syndrome of severe depression, irritability, and stress preceding the period is known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, (PDD or PMDD) (also known as late luteal dysphoric disorder.) It affects about 3% to 8% of women of reproductive age. The diagnosis of PDD depends on the presence of five standard symptoms of major depression.
