Extreme Symptoms of Depression

Everyone experiences the occasional blues. Sadness can last for a few hours or days, or it can persist for several months. There are different degrees of sadness. And while some people are able to overcome the blues, prolonged sadness can lead to severe depression. The symptoms of depression vary from mild to severe. Individuals who deal with mild depression may not need treatment. Sadly, individuals who suffer from severe depression rarely respond to self-treatment; and, depending on their trigger factors, they may need to seek professional help for their symptoms.

Types

There are three major types of severe depression. Individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder often deal with periods of extreme depression. What's more, seasonal affective disorder affects a large percentage of the population. Individuals who suffer from this condition may experience extreme depression during certain times of the years--particularly fall and winter. In rare cases, psychotic depression can occur in individuals with a history of mental illness. This severe form of depression is characterized by delusion and a loss of touch with reality.

Identification

Major or severe depression should not be confused with mild to moderate depression. While the symptoms of mild and major depression can overlap, individuals who deal with extreme depression may experience uncontrollable crying spells, significant weight gain or loss, extreme fatigue, chronic pain and thoughts of suicide. Additionally, people who deal with extreme depression may sleep more or have a difficult time making decisions.

Effects

If left untreated, symptoms of extreme depression can intensify. This can trigger a mental or psychotic breakdown. When this occurs, sufferers may sleep for longer periods--sometimes days. They may lose complete interest in family or friends, begin to hear voices, hallucinate, show signs of paranoia, experience traumatic flashbacks or become violent.

Considerations

Anyone who deals with prolonged depression or shows signs of extreme depression should talk with their primary care doctor or a mental health doctor. Medications are available to treat extreme symptoms of depression. Aside from treating symptoms, physicians can help you identify factors that trigger depression. One-on-one counseling sessions with a professional are helpful. Additionally, participating in group sessions can help you connect with other sufferers.

Expert Insight

Several factors can increase your risk of developing extreme symptoms of depression. Depression typically occurs in individuals with a family history of depression or mental illness. A stressful life event or living with a serious illness can also trigger a severe depression episode. Other factors include abusing alcohol or drugs, giving birth, having low self-esteem and taking certain medications such as birth control pills or high-blood-pressure medications.