Atypical Depression Sadly Misunderstood

Atypical depression, while just as severe as other forms of depression, is different in many ways. One is that it usually springs up earlier than other types, typically when you are a teenager. It can be more common in girls and women than men, and this type of depression can come and go depending on circumstances.

While severe depression lasts a long time and does not just go away. This form of depression, does not go away either, but can lessen because of mood, experiences, and time of year. For example, many people with this type of depression may feel really down and sad during the winter, but many of the symptoms can be alleviated when there is a nice sunny day.

Because of this confusion it is often misdiagnosed. Some may classify it as Dysthymia, or Cyclothymia, a milder form of bipolar disorder. Because it has its up and down periods, doctors can often mistake it for manic depression as well, but it is depression, none the less.

Major depression is not affected by changes in mood or behavior, while Atypical Depression is affected by many different things. Sleeping too much can bring this on, as well as excessive weight gain. You can have a more intensive reaction to situations like being rejected when dating, not getting a raise or promotion, as well as many other reasons.

This type of depression often is related to other diseases, like a malfunctioning thyroid gland. This is why when people with these health issues finally go see a health care provider, doctors will perform a series of blood tests for hypothyroidism or even adult forms of growth hormone deficiency. There are other causes of this type of depression as well, including a chemical imbalance in the brain, a family history of depression, or even a severe loss such as the death of a close family member.

While it is important that you get diagnosed as soon as possible, it is also important to know that there are alternatives to prescription medication. If you suffer from a thyroid gland or a hormone problem, certain medications that are designed to fix these specific problems do work, and need to be taken. However, there are other factors and natural remedies to consider if your diagnosis is not from one of these glandular problems.

For example, some people who suffer from this during the winter months find that light therapy helps alleviate their symptoms. Getting out and doing activities like riding a bike, walking, or swimming can also help, not only to lift your mood, and build self esteem, but also helps you to lose weight. A change in diet can also help, and eating more healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, getting the right amount of the vitamins and minerals your body needs, can also go a long way to improving your symptoms.

There are many resources to help you find out if you have Atypical Depression, as well as much information on what kinds of natural remedies are available instead of taking medication. One of the biggest problems with taking drugs for depression is that these have side effects, some which can be worse than the depression itself. Many can make you feel better because taking them no longer makes you feel much of anything at all.