Psych Basics

Depression
Dysthymia, Mood Disorders, SAD

Varieties of Depression

Many diagnosable conditions are forms of depression. Postpartum depression affects new mothers; bipolar disorder (colloquially known as manic depression), involves episodes of sadness and anxiety mixed with manic "highs."

Seasonal depression affects people only in the winter months, while dysthymia is mild depression. Suicidal thoughts often coincide with depressive episodes, which is why it's important to be aware of the signs if you or a loved one experiences  chronic mood disturbances.



Seasonal Affective Disorder

SAD is triggered by reduced sunlight.

Postpartum Depression

Three to fifteen percent of new mothers experience some form of postpartum depression.

Dysthymia

Dysthymia is a prolonged state of mild depression.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder affects 2.6 percent of the American population.

Suicide

The United States ranks 40th in the world for per capita suicide.

Depressed?
Find a nearby specialist for face-to-face help.

Depression Blogs

  • Russ Federman, Ph.D., ABPP

    Bipolar You

    The young adult's guide to bipolar depression.
    By Russ Federman, Ph.D.
  • Jonathan Rottenberg, PhD

    Charting the Depths

    Reflections on the science of depression.
    By Jonathan Rottenberg, Ph.D.

  • Depression Management Techniques

    Understanding how your brain makes you depressed and what you can do to change it.
    By Margaret Wehrenberg, Psy.D.

  • Focus on Forgiveness

    Forgiveness and its connection to anxiety, depression, and overall health and happiness.
    By Matthew B. James, Ph.D.

  • Generation Meds

    How antidepressants cheered us up, let us down, and changed who we are.
    By Katherine Sharpe
  • Julie Hersh

    Struck By Living

    Coping with depression and living life to the fullest.
    By Julie Hersh
  • Karen Kleiman, MSW, LCSW

    This Isn't What I Expected

    Notes on healing postpartum depression.
    By Karen Kleiman, MSW, LCSW

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