Atypical Depression.
Atypical depression is a type of depression that overwhelms an
individual almost to the point of emotional paralysis. Oftentimes,
atypical depression is set off by perceived as well as real
rejections so that even a constructive criticism is taken as a
personal affront.
If you are battling atypical depression, you probably feel
extremely sensitive to criticism. If you are married or have a
significant other, you may feel a bout of depression if he or she
does not give you a hug or turns away from you instead of holding
you while sleeping together.
You may eat too much and turn to comfort foods when you
experience atypical depression. Don’t be surprised if it’s hard to
get out of bed or if you sleep more than 10 hours with atypical
depression.
People with atypical depression feel sluggish so that even daily
ordinary tasks seem too complicated and cumbersome. A romantic
break-up or death in the family may set off serious symptoms of
atypical depression.
Atypical depression often follows rejections by close friends,
co-workers or family members.
Atypical depression is not new. Indeed, it is one of the most
common kinds of depression. The name atypical depression comes
from the fact many of its symptoms are opposite to those of some
severe depressions. For example people with atypical depression
tend to overeat and oversleep. In contrast, people with depression
can’t eat or sleep. You may feel anxious instead of numb.
If you have atypical depression, you may feel as though your body
is so heavy you can’t lift your head or walk.
Experts have linked atypical depression to other psychiatric
problems such as borderline personality disorder, but only a
professional can diagnose you with having atypical depression.
Atypical depression may occur together with panic disorder. Many
people with atypical depression abuse drugs or alcohol.
People with atypical depression are externally validated. They
feel good when people give them positive compliments and they
feel bad when someone criticizes them. Their moods change and
shift as quickly as the wind depending if they are isolated and
lonely or with a group of friends enjoying a night out on the
town.
According to the DSM-IV,1, the official guide to psychological
disorders, atypical depression is characterized by mood reactivity
and two or more of the following criteria: hypersomnia, increased
appetite or weight gain , leaden paralysis, longstanding
sensitivity to interpersonal rejection that results in significant
social or occupational impairment.
Symptoms of atypical depression:
- Sleeping more than 10 hours
- Cyclical depressive mood
- Emotional sensitivity to criticism and rejection
- Feelings of lethargy and emotional paralysis
- Increased appetite and food cravings for carbohydrates
If you have atypical depression, you are at higher risk for more
serious and sudden major depression. You may not even know you
have atypical depression because you feel depressed most of the
time. You may try to hide your symptoms of atypical depression by
working harder, going on diets, analyzing your failed
relationships and staying on a rigid schedule; however, you have
only covered up your atypical depression not cured it.
Once your doctor has diagnosed you with atypical depression, you
will have the option of taking antidepressants to control the
symptoms. It is important to note that while antidepressants are
often the first line of treatment, there are safe alternatives to
most types of depression. Discuss natural alternatives like Deprex
with your health care provider before using prescription
medications with potentially serious and life-threatening side
effects.
