Different Types of Mental Health Disorders Defined

Major Depressive Disorder

Sometimes called clinical depression, this is the most common form of the disorder. More than 16 million adults have had at least one episode. To make a diagnosis, doctors look for at least five symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and behave, including:

• Sadness
• Loss of interest in activities
• Sleeplessness
• Trouble making decisions
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleepiness
• Suicidal thoughts or actions
• Changes in appetite
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Bipolar Disorder

Once called manic depression, it features emotional highs — called mania — and the lows of depression. These swings affect not only how you feel, but your behavior and judgment, too. That can cause problems with work, relationships, and day-to-day life. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors also are common with bipolar disorder.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

The gloomy days of fall and winter can be hard for those with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Its symptoms are the same as depression but generally happen only during the fall and winter, when there’s less daylight. About 5% of adults in America have SAD. Treatments, such as light therapy or medication, can quickly ease symptoms. But they can also improve on their own when spring arrives.

Psychotic Depression

This is a severe type of depression. Its symptoms include hallucinations and delusions. You may be agitated and be unable to relax. Your ability to think clearly or move normally may slow down. Psychotic depression usually requires a short hospital stay.

Atypical Depression

Most forms of depression make you feel sad and empty. But if yours lifts briefly after good news or a positive experience, you may have atypical depression.

It isn’t rare, but its symptoms are a little different. Other than the temporary mood lift, you may:

• Have a bigger appetite
• Sleep 10 or more hours a day
• Be especially sensitive to criticism.
• Get a heavy feeling in your arms and legs that’s not because you’re tired

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

Although all kids have temper tantrums, children with this disorder are usually irritable and have outbursts well beyond what’s expected. The previous diagnosis for some of these kids was pediatric bipolar disorder, but their symptoms didn’t always fit.

What Now?

If you or a loved one suspect you could be experiencing any of the symptoms described above, please seek help with a medical professional as soon as possible. I would recommend a psychiatrist as they are the most familiar with mental health disorders and treating them.