Symptoms of Minor Depression

Minor depression is a fairly common mood disturbance that consists of two to five depression symptoms that last for at least two weeks. Although it is called "minor depression," the impact of this condition isn't minor. The symptoms of minor depression can dramatically affect the sufferer's ability to function and his overall quality of life. The rate of minor depression is actually higher than that of major depression, yet the condition is often misdiagnosed or simply ignored. Minor depression shares the same symptoms as major depression, though the symptoms are fewer in number and can be less obvious.

Sadness or Withdrawal

• Patients suffering from minor depression typically feel sad or depressed for the greater part of nearly every day. Women with this condition often seem tearful and shy, while children and teenagers tend to exhibit irritability or hostility. Males with minor depression can come across as agitated and restless. Sufferers often have moderate to severe conflicts with family members and friends. Individuals with minor depression often show a dramatically decreased interest or pleasure in usual activities and hobbies. They tend to withdraw from social interactions and activities. An individual must exhibit either sadness or a lack of interest in usual activities to be diagnosed with minor depression.

Changes in Sleep Patterns and Appetite

• Individuals suffering with minor depression often have sleep irregularities, either sleeping too little or too much almost every day. While some patients begin experiencing severe insomnia, others report they simply cannot keep their eyes open. Many patients feel fatigued and sluggish, while others describe feeling restless and jittery. Minor depression symptoms may also include dramatic changes in appetite. A sufferer can suddenly lose or gain excessive amounts of weight.

Focus Problems

• Many people who suffer from minor depression begin experiencing focus problems. Some patients find it extremely difficult to concentrate on daily activities. The regular tasks that were once quite easy to perform are now too complicated or exhausting to complete. Other individuals find it hard to make even the simplest of decisions. Many patients report having trouble with their memory, often forgetting appointments and people's names. These focus problems can result in the patient having trouble performing well in school or at work.

Extreme Emotions and Suicidal Tendencies

• Other symptoms of minor depression include extreme and inappropriate feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness and self-hatred. Many patients have sudden bursts of anger and aggression because of these emotions. They can't seem to control the negative thoughts and emotions, no matter how hard they try. Low self-esteem is commonly shared by individuals with minor depression. Some patients think about death constantly and contemplate the ending their lives. A few sufferers actually make a suicide attempt.

Treatment

• Although some physicians prescribe antidepressants for minor depression, the condition can often be effectively treated with psychotherapy. Counseling can address the feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, while cognitive therapy can help change negative thinking patterns. Behavioral therapy can increase a patient's coping skills, while interpersonal therapy might help the patient resolve any relationship conflicts. Patients should get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet and follow a regular exercise regime. If the minor depression happens during the fall or winter, patients can try light therapy, which uses a special lamp that mimics sunlight.

Considerations

• Patients suffering from minor depression are six times more likely to develop major depression. Sleep disturbances, appetite changes and suicidal thinking are the three primary symptoms linked to the slide from minor to major depression. About twice as many women as men will develop major depression. If the minor depression lasts for at least two years, the patient is considered to have dysthymia, a milder, longer-lasting type of depression. Minor depression typically affects the lives of individuals aged 18 to 45.