Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Is it Atypical Depression?


Most people lose their appetites when they get depressed. Not so with Atypical Depression. Here, the symptoms are:


  • Feelings of sadness, emptiness or feeling tearful
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities
  • Increased appetite
  • Unintentional weight gain
  • Increased desire to sleep
  • Heavy, leaden feeling in the arms and legs
  • Sensitivity to rejection or criticism that interferes with your social life or job
  • Fear of rejection that leads to avoiding relationships
  • Having depression that temporarily lifts with good news or positive events but returns later
I think that many people who use food to soothe their emotions may have Atypical Depression. This is good news in a way. When you know what's going on, the path toward healing becomes clearer and easier to follow.

There are probably many causes for Atypical Depression, from brain chemistry to complicated grief to being deprived of a certain kind of soothing or bonding in childhood.

Changing your chemistry may involve changing your diet, trying medication or natural anti-depressants, and structuring your life so that you build in positive, mood-lifting situations.

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Since Atypical Depression often lifts with positive events, it may be useful to seek therapy with someone who understands and practices some form of positive psychology - someone who will celebrate your strengths and achievements with you, as well as understand and accept the times you feel stuck or sad or irritable.

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Finding a group of people who share an interest - hiking, cooking, knitting, etc., and who are easy-going, non-judgmental and fun is a great way to boost your mood. If you feel shy at first, try asking a friend to go with you the first few times, to help ease you in and break the ice.

For medication and dietary advice, it's best to talk with your doctor or a nutritionist, always keeping a close eye on your physical and emotional responses to medication or dietary changes. Your body knows and will tell you what's right for you when you listen closely.