news bulletin  
     
 

Couples Can Overdo Being Supportive
February 1, 2010, Science Daily

 
     
 

Prayer Increases Forgiveness, Study Shows
February 1, 2010, Science Daily

 
 

 

 
 

Nine psychological tasks for a good marriage
American Psychological Association

 
     
 

His or Hers Jealousy? New Explanation for Sex Differences in Jealousy
January 31, 2010, Science Daily

 
     
 

Couples with Shared Identity Better at Conflict Resolution
January 29, 2010, PsychCentral

 
     
 

Same-sex couples can be effective parents, researchers find
January 21, 2010, USA Today

 
     
   
     
   
     
   
     
   
     
   

 

depression
 

Depression is a mood disorder that involves feelings of extraordinary sadness and dejection. It is common to feel depressed; however, when feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness become debilitating and last for days or weeks, you may be suffering from a medical condition. The type, severity and frequency of depressive symptoms will vary for each person.

Types of depression include:

Major depression
Major depression symptoms are disabling and affect your ability function normally at work, home and school. Usually symptoms strike daily for at least two weeks and are not induced by substance abuse or medication. Symptoms include: depressed mood, chronic sadness, fatigue, lethargy, guilt, loss of appetite, inability to concentrate, insomnia, too much sleep, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, agitation, weight loss, weight gain, decreased sex drive, and frequent thoughts of suicide.
   
Chronic depression
Chronic depression symptoms are not disabling; however, they are long-term, lasting two years or more. The symptoms of chronic depression are the same as those of major depression, but milder. If you suffer from chronic depression you may undergo one or more major depressive episodes in your lifetime.
   
Atypical depression
While depression is evidenced by chronic sadness, atypical depression is marked by lethargy and sensitivity. Symptoms include: eating too much, excessive sleep, low energy, extreme mood swings tied to specific events, and excessive sensitivity to negative responses or dismissals.
   
Bipolar depression
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is a sickness that triggers extreme changes in mood. Like a pendulum, your mood may swing freely from an extremely high, frenzied, hyper, sexually overcharged, overexcited state to an extremely low, dejected, miserable, aching, gloomy state. These periods of mania and depression are normally interspersed by periods of calm. Go here for more information on bipolar disorder.
   
Seasonal depression
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is triggered at the same time each year. Fall and winter are common times for seasonal depression to occur and spring and summer are common times for seasonal depression to end. Seasonal depression should not be confused with milder feelings known as winter blues or cabin fever. Symptoms include: depressed mood, tiredness, overeating, and weight gain.
   
Psychotic depression
Psychotic depression is when severe depression co-exists with another psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions. One of four people admitted to a hospital for depression is diagnosed with psychotic depression. Symptoms of psychotic depression are similar to those of major depression marked by a break from reality. You may see or hear voices that don’t exist, experience illogical fears or have strange, unreasonable thoughts. Often, you may be aware that your thoughts are unsound and therefore experience feelings of shame and embarrassment. Symptoms include: quick temper, irrational rage, loner lifestyle, strange sleep patterns, a tendency to neglect personal hygiene, and confusing or incomprehensible communication skills.
   
Postpartum depression
Postpartum depression is a depression that affects new moms. It is normal for new moms to experience the baby blues; however, postpartum depression is marked by a major depressive episode within four weeks after delivery. Symptoms include: insomnia, change in appetite, extreme exhaustion, decreased sex drive, numerous mood swings, depression, hopelessness, worthlessness, and thoughts of death and suicide. Studies show that postpartum depression is caused by chemical, social, and psychological factors connected to having a baby.

 
postpartum depression
by Rosalind Dorlen, PsyD,
a Member of the National Register Board of Directors

helpful links
Causes of Depression
Depression.com

age specific

Study: Seniors With Late Life Depression...
HealthyPlace.com


gender specific

Depression: What Every Woman Should Know
National Institute of Mental Health

Depression in Women
American Academy of Family Physicians

 


culture specific
 
The National Register is not responsible for the content or maintenance of these websites.

psychology topics
abuse bipolar disorder obesity/weight management
addictive disorders borderline/narcissistic schizophrenia
adult development dementia/alzheimer's school violence
ad/hd depression suicide
anxiety eating disorders

daily life
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Updated: February 1, 2010
 


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