Causes and risk factors:
The exact cause of depression is not known. However there are varieties of factors that can cause depression. Various events in life like death of loved ones, disappointment in love, sexual abuse, foster care, failure in career etc can lead to depression. Certain use of medications also contribute to it. Hormonal changes and neurotransmitter imbalance can also lead to depression. Depression can be a manifestation of variety of psychological disorders like anxiety disorder or post traumatic disorder. Addiction to alcohol or other substance abuse can make the person land up in depression.
Clinical presentations:
Unlike major depression. A person suffering from atypical depression usually feels gloomy but is cheered up by any positive thought or event. Any negative situation however depresses them severely. Their appetite is increased and they crave for food as a result of which increase weight gain is seen. An individual suffering from atypical depression tends to sleep a lot. They have excessive sleep. Easy fatigue and tiredness is seen in them. Their extremities feel heavy .They feel as if they are paralyzed. This laziness or tiredness is seen both at mental and physical level. They have low sex drive, unexplained pain all over the body, difficulty in concentration and in taking decision. Small arguments or contradiction evokes anger and irritability. The reaction to emotions is excess. Social isolation is seen. Most of the time these people have persistent suicidal thoughts.
Diagnosis and investigations:
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and on the basis of complete psychiatric evaluation. Reviewing of the history is the most essential step. All the details are obtained from the family and friends. Close observation in such cases is essential. Investigations can be advised in cases where the doctor suspects any pathology. The diagnosis of atypical depression is made when severe depression is seen along with any of the above characteristic features.
Treatment:
Anti psychotic or anti depressive medications are the first lines of treatment in such cases. Psychotherapy plays a major role in this. It comprises of counseling and interpersonal therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy has found to be effective in such cases. Support and care by family and friends will help the patient to cope up with the complaints. Indulgence in positive recreational activity, meditation care effective.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating depression. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms.
