Depression is a serious mental condition that affects roughly 20 million Americans yearly. It is a disorder of the mind that often manifests in extreme agitation and grief and when left untreated can take on various types that may range from mild to deadly. The most common depressive symptoms are at times hard to identify as they are oftentimes associated with just the normal feelings of sadness and some can even mask these symptoms and have them manifests in ways that may not be associated with depression.

In order to get a clearer understanding on the intensity and severity of depression, one needs to equip himself with the basic knowledge on the different types of depression. The two general classifications of depression may either be overt or covert. Overt depression is when the symptoms are externally visible and manifested while the covert type is one that is hidden or unexpressed, this type is usually seen with men in depression.

Bipolar Disorder

This mental illness usually includes episodes of intense and disturbing manic behavioral episodes that lasts for more than a week. It consists of a cyclical pattern of episodes. Sufferers usually endure violent and extreme mood swings and require immediate medical attention.

Major Depressive Disorder

This type of depressive disorder is considered the most prevalent and sufferers often exhibit displeasure and despair that takes hold of an individual on a consecutive basis for two weeks or more.

Atypical Depression

This type of depression on the other hand can manifest through conditions of extreme happiness and elation accompanied by fatigue, increased sleeping and over eating. Episodes for atypical sufferers may last for months or even years and some have unconsciously lived with it throughout their lives.

Postnatal Depression

This type of depression which manifests after a woman gives birth is very common and is estimated to affect 50% of all mothers during the first few days after childbirth. This is what is often called as baby blues but in some cases post partum depression can lead to a more serious mental illness that warrants medical help.

Psychotic Depression

This extreme form of depression already involves hallucinations and psychotic breaks. They often complain of hearing scary voices and seeing frightening images that are not really there.

Depression is curable and our medical professionals are equipped with the right knowledge and tools to treat this disorder. The key is to realize and accept that you have a disorder and seek professional help.