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Atypical Depression Condition Symptoms

Atypical depression is a type of mood condition that differs in some specific ways from more common forms of mood disorders, such as major depression or bipolar disorder. Atypical depression includes social, emotional and physical symptoms that are specific to the condition.

  1. Depressive Symptoms

    • Feeling chronically sad nearly every day, losing interest in activities, sleep changes, fatigue, poor concentration, hopelessness, thoughts of death, dying and suicide are all symptoms of depression.

    Mood Reactivity

    • Reacting to situations with moods that are outside of the norm for depression, such as joy and excitement, is characteristic of atypical depression. This mood reactivity may be in response to visits from friends or family or other positive experiences.

    Physical Features

    • Gaining a significant amount of weight, increased appetite, sleeping too much, feeling a sense of heaviness or weighted feeling in the arms or legs are symptoms of atypical depression.

    Social Features

    • Experiencing chronic interpersonal relationship problems and sensitivity to rejection are characteristics of atypical depression. These relational problems interfere with daily functioning, for example causing someone to stay home from work or school to avoid social interactions.

    Treatment

    • Seeking help for atypical depression is the first step. Family or friends may make observations; patients may report to their physicians with these symptom complaints. Treating atypical depression can include psychotherapy and/or medication. Usually, antidepressants in low doses are effective.

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