Types of Depression

Millions of people are afflicted with the illness know as depression. It is very difficult to get rid of depression and even harder to identify what stage of depression a person is in. There are typically two types of depression, but both are very serious and should be treated as such.

Most people believe depression is a choice and that someone can stop being depressed without needing any help, but that is hardly the case. Depression is a medical illness and should be treated seriously. There are several different types of depression and each one may require a different form of treatment. It is important for family members to know the different forms of depression so that they can better be prepared to help someone they love.

Major Depression

Major depression is obviously the most serious form of the illness. Most people do not go straight to major depression, so if someone is in this stage, they have been depressed for quite some time. Some people are able to hide their depression better than others, and those are the ones that get this stage. Major depression usually involves suicidal thoughts and eventual psychiatric hospitalization. Most people are capable of recovering from this depression but it will take time and medication.

Moderate Depression

Moderate depression is much harder to treat than major depression and many times can go unnoticed for several years. Most people do not show major signs that would alarm a loved one, but slow subtle symptoms appear over time. This type of depression can be combated with regular exercise, therapy and possibly medication.