When you hear the word “depression,” it’s likely that a single condition comes to mind. Many people are aware that people with depression may struggle with low mood, sleep and appetite changes, feelings of hopelessness, and more. However, fewer people know that depression comes in many different forms. Read on to learn more about the various types of depressive and mood disorders.
What is Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder?
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, or DMDD, is a condition in which young people experience intense, ongoing anger and temper outbursts. These symptoms are so intense that they make it difficult for the person to function at home and school. DMDD symptoms make relationships challenging.
For a person who has never heard of DMDD, it may sound like the condition is not so different from the feelings and outbursts that many young people experience. In fact, it is normal for us all to experience irritability from time to time.
However, the symptoms of DMDD are much more extreme. Someone with DMDD may have outbursts that are out of proportion to the situation at hand, and these outbursts tend to happen several times a week for months on end. The anger and irritability associated with DMDD is also more intense than others may typically experience.
What is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major depressive disorder is likely what the average person envisions when hearing the term “depression.” This condition consists of all the expected depression symptoms: low mood, loss of interest in activities, appetite changes, sleep changes, changes to the speed of speech and movement, tiredness, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, trouble concentrating, and/or suicidal thoughts. A person must experience these symptoms for at least a two-week period in order to be formally diagnosed.
It’s important to note that even though people with major depressive disorder experience common symptoms, their experiences and presentations may vary.
What is Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?
Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, is much like major depressive disorder. With dysthymia, people experience many of the same symptoms as those with major depressive disorder. However, people need to experience a certain number of symptoms in order to be officially diagnosed with major depressive disorder. If someone does not display “enough” symptoms to have that diagnosis, they may be experiencing dysthymia.
Another major difference between major depressive disorder and dysthymia is the time frame for symptoms. In order to be diagnosed with dysthymia, a person must exhibit symptoms for most of a two-year period.
What is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder?
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a mood disorder that presents itself during a person’s menstrual cycle. Notably, the symptoms are exhibited in the week leading up to a person’s monthly period, and symptoms subside as the period goes on.
In order to be diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, a person must experience at least one of the following symptoms: mood swings, irritability, low mood, and/or anxiety. A person must also experience one or more of the following symptoms: loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, tiredness, changes in appetite, changes in sleep, feeling overwhelmed, and/or certain physical sensations. In all, a person must experience five total symptoms to be considered for a diagnosis.
Unspecified Depressive Disorder
Unspecified depressive disorder can have many different presentations. Basically, this diagnosis can be used when a person’s symptoms do not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of another mood disorder, but still cause a lot of distress and difficulty in a person’s life.
Getting Help
Even though each depressive and mood disorder is different, they can all be helped with therapy. Having someone to support you and help you change your negative thoughts and behaviors can help your symptoms improve. Reach out today via phone or email, and together we will help you identify and manage your condition.
