Atypical Depression - Causes and Symptoms

Atypical Depression is a subtype of Major Depressionselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
characterized by mood reactivity being able toHowever, research continues to try to define this more
experience improved mood in response to positiveclearly. Atypical depression is more common in women
events. They'll feel deeply depressed or somewhatthan in men. The exact cause of depression isn't clear.
hopeful depending on the latest situation they areBut genetics and environmental factors play a role. If
faced with. Their mood will brighten considerably whenyou are concerned that you or someone you know
dining out with friends or enjoying a good movie. Buthas atypical depression, seek help from a mental
when they are alone, their mood will slip back into thehealth professional.
dark depths of depression. Atypical depression is aCauses of Atypical Depression
variation of depression that is slightly different from1. Certain medications, including those for high blood
major depression. The sufferer is sometimes able topressure, high cholesterol, or irregular heartbeat.
experience happiness and moments of elation.2. Sleep disturbances.
Symptoms of atypical depression include fatigue,3. Amount of exposure to light.
oversleeping, overeating and weight gain. Those who4. Heredity.
suffer from atypical depression should know that they5. Chronic stress (such as from loss, abuse, or
are not alone and that there is a viable supportdeprivation in early childhood).
network and a number of treatment choices to aid in6. Nutritional deficiencies.
their struggle. Episodes of atypical depression can last7. Family history of depression.
for months or a sufferer may live with it forever.8. History of abuse (such as mental, physical, or sexual)
In addition to the core symptoms of depression,.
atypical depression is defined by the ability to feel9. Current or past alcohol or drug abuse-25% of
better temporarily in response to a positive life event,people with addictions have depression.
plus any two of the following criteria: excessive sleep,Symptoms of Atypical Depression
overeating, a feeling of heaviness in the limbs and a1. Female sex was associated with all of the atypical
sensitivity to rejection . Despite its name, "atypical"symptoms except rejection sensitivity.
depression is actually the most common subtype of2. A duration of illness of greater than 3 months was
depression up to 40% of the depressed populationpositively associated with hyperphagia, leaden
may be classified as having atypical depression. Inparalysis, and rejection sensitivity.
addition, some research suggests that an older class3. Fatigue and loss of energy.
of drugs, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), may4. Feelings of hopelessness.
be more effective in treating atypical depression than5. Extreme difficulty concentrating .
newer drugs, including tricyclic antidepressants and