Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

Types of Depression

Atypical Depression

Atypical depression is a form that temporarily disappears when you face positive events. Many healthcare providers often call it major depression with atypical features. This condition is not uncommon and can occur during a period of major depression. Typical symptoms include insomnia, increased sleep, poor body image, eating disorder, weight gain, body pains and aches, sensitivity to rejection or criticism, as well as increased appetite. Some people can experience both atypical depression and persistent depression at the same time. The exact cause of atypical depression is still unclear. Nevertheless, there are some possible risk factors such as a major illness, a history of abusing drugs or alcohol, as well as traumatic events. Genetics can also play an important part in the development of this condition. This means people with a family history of atypical depression tend to be at a higher risk. It can also be caused when an imbalance occurs in the brain and affects mood-regulating chemicals like dopamine, norepinephrine, or serotonin. [8]