7 Most Common Types of Depression (Part 2)

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by periods of abnormally elevated mood known as mania. These periods of A major can be mild (hypomania) or they can be so extreme as to cause marked impairment with a person's life, require hospitalization, or affect a person's sense of reality. The vast majority of those with bipolar illness also have episodes of major depression.

In addition to depressed mood and markedly diminished interest in activities, people with bipolar depression often have a range of physical and emotional symptoms which may include:

• Fatigue, insomnia, and lethargy

• Unexplained aches, pains, and psychomotor agitation

• Hopelessness and loss of self-esteem

• Irritability and anxiety

• Indecision and disorganization

The risk of suicide in bipolar illness is 15 times greater than in the general population. Psychosis (including hallucinations and delusions) can also occur in more extreme cases.

Postpartum Depression

Pregnancy can bring about significant hormonal shifts that can often affect a woman's moods. Depression can have its onset during pregnancy or following the birth of a child.

Postpartum depression is more than that just the "baby blues." It can range from a persistent lethargy and sadness that requires medical treatment all the way up to postpartum psychosis, a condition in which the mood episode is accompanied by confusion, hallucinations or delusions.