Atypical depression

Atypical Depression

Atypical depression (pronounced: əˈtɪpɪkəl dɪˈprɛʃən) is a subtype of MDD or Clinical depression. It is characterized by mood reactivity, which means that the individual's mood can improve in response to positive events.

Etymology

The term "atypical depression" originates from the fact that some of its symptoms are 'atypical' or different from those of melancholic or 'typical' depression.

Symptoms

Atypical depression is characterized by several specific symptoms, including increased appetite or weight gain, hypersomnia, leaden paralysis, and a sensitivity to rejection. These symptoms are in contrast to the symptoms of typical depression, which include loss of appetite, insomnia, and a lack of reactivity in mood.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of atypical depression is based on the patient's self-reported experiences, behavior reported by relatives or friends, and a mental status examination. The DSM-5 includes atypical depression as a subtype of major depressive disorder.

Treatment

Treatment for atypical depression includes pharmacological therapy and psychotherapy. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are commonly used in the treatment of this condition.

Related Terms

• Major depressive disorder
• Clinical depression
• Melancholic depression
• Pharmacotherapy
• Psychotherapy

See Also

• Mood disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Dysthymia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Atypical depression
• Wikipedia's article - Atypical depression

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