Various forms of depressive disorders affect both men and women, with major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder being the most prevalent. Additionally, minor depression is frequently observed.
Major depressive disorder, also known as major depression, encompasses symptoms that significantly disrupt a person’s ability to function in various areas of life, including work, sleep, study, eating, and enjoyment of once-pleasurable activities. This condition is debilitating and hinders normal functioning. While major depression may occur as a single episode in a person’s lifetime, it often recurs over time.
Dysthymic disorder, or dysthymia, entails long-term depressive symptoms lasting two years or more, albeit less severe than those seen in major depression. While dysthymia may not render a person incapacitated, it impedes normal functioning and overall well-being. Individuals with dysthymia may also experience episodes of major depression during their lives.
Minor depression shares similarities with major depression and dysthymia but is characterized by milder and/or shorter-term symptoms.
Some depressive disorders exhibit distinct features or arise under specific circumstances, though there is not universal consensus among scientists regarding their characterization. These include:
- Psychotic depression, where severe depressive symptoms co-occur with psychosis, such as hallucinations or delusions.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), typified by depressive episodes during winter months due to reduced sunlight exposure. Symptoms often improve in spring and summer. Light therapy, antidepressants, and psychotherapy are common treatments, though not all individuals respond to light therapy alone.
These forms of depression may have unique characteristics or emerge under specific conditions, but consensus on their classification remains variable among researchers.