SEO Title: 10 Common Depressions Impacting Americans
Meta Description: What depressive disorders are more common in America? Read this post to find out.
In 2020, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) found that close to 21 million U.S. adults experienced at least one major depressive episode of that year.
This means 8.3% of the American population suffer from depression, and the statistic continues to grow. The growing mental health crisis stems from various factors, including chronic illnesses like diabetes.
You may be more vulnerable to depression due to the constant need to monitor blood sugar levels, adhere to strict dietary restrictions, and living with the fear of experiencing more health complications.
Understanding these different depression disorders can help you look for specific symptoms that can impact your overall diabetes management. Keep reading to recognize the signs of depression and feel empowered to seek treatment early on.
1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Have you ever suddenly lost interest in activities you once loved? Do you often feel sad all the time? No matter how much sleep you get every night, you still feel tired!
These are common symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The disorder causes struggles with concentration, disrupted sleep cycles, and low energy.
MDD can last for several weeks or months, impacting your life and relationships. Due to your diabetic condition, you’re twice as likely to experience MDD compared to those not living with diabetes.
2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
A more chronic form of MDD is Persistent Depressive Disorder, also known as Dysthymia. It is a depressive illness that lasts for two years or more. Although Dysthymia’s symptoms are less severe than MDD, its long-lasting nature can wreak havoc on one’s life.
You may feel stuck in a cycle of low self-esteem and hopelessness, making it hard to do even the simplest things. With the long-term challenges of diabetes management, you have a higher chance of experiencing this condition.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Those who suffer from bipolar disorder often experience extreme highs or lows in their moods. It is one of the more complex forms of depression that causes manic episodes. During the depressive phases, individuals experience symptoms similar to MDD, including extreme sadness and lack of energy.
4. Postpartum Depression (PPD)
This depressive disorder occurs in new mothers after childbirth. It is triggered by a combination of hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the stress of adjusting to motherhood.
Women with PPD may experience extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. Sadly, most mothers do not seek the help they need with PPD due to stigma.
5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Have you ever felt sadder during the colder months? You may be experiencing a depressive disorder known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
SAD symptoms include lethargy, weight gain, and irritability. Luckily, light therapy treatment can be effective for those living with this mental disorder.
6. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
This is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) causes intense depression, irritability, and mood swings during the menstrual cycle.
The emotional toll of PMDD can strain relationships and affect daily functioning. However, hormonal treatments and antidepressants are available to help alleviate PMDD symptoms.
7. Situational Depression (Adjustment Disorder)
Situational Depression is a mental disorder that arises in response to a specific event or life change. Unlike other forms of depression, adjustment disorder is directly tied to external circumstances.
For example, a person who just lost a job or is going through a divorce may experience this mental illness. Although it’s temporary, extra support from loved ones can help a person suffering from adjustment disorder.
8. Atypical Depression
This is a unique form of depression that differs from MDD in several ways. Those experiencing atypical depression symptoms may have increased appetite, weight gain, excessive sleep, and mood reactivity.
This depressive disorder is often misdiagnosed or underestimated due to how an individual responds to their environment. If something positive happens, someone with atypical depression may experience a brief lift in mood.
Excessive stress can also bring about atypical depression. Read more here on how stress can impact your
9. Psychotic Depression
This mental disorder is a severe form of depression that combines typical MDD symptoms with psychosis. Individuals suffering from psychotic depression may experience false beliefs or hear or see things that aren’t there.
The combination of psychosis and depression can lead to a higher risk of self-harm or suicide if left untreated. However, antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, and therapy can manage the depressive and psychotic elements of this mental illness.
10. Treatment-Resistant Depression
Sometimes depression doesn’t respond to traditional treatments. This often leads to a mental condition known as Treatment-Resistant Depression.
Those suffering from this condition may feel emotionally drained from trying to find an effective treatment option. However, alternative therapies such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or ketamine treatment offer some hope for living with this depressive disorder.
Which Depressive Disorders Are More Common in Diabetics?
The most common depressive disorder in diabetics is MDD. This is due to the daily life struggles of managing diabetes.
Other depressive disorders that diabetics are more likely to experience include Dysthymia, Atypical Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. To support your mental health, practice mindfulness, engage in regular physical activity, and seek therapy to help process your emotions.
Also, vitamin B helps support more than just your nerve health; it also plays a role in brain health and mood regulation. Start your auto-shipping service on Benfotiamine supplements to help manage your physical and emotional health.