Mental depression is classified by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as a mood disorder with serious symptoms that affect the patient's quality of life. The number and severity of symptoms determine which type of mental depression the patient has.
Symptoms
The NIH lists the symptoms of mental depression as sadness, feeling hopeless or worthless, sleeping problems, appetite changes, withdrawal, irritability, fatigue, concentration difficulties and thoughts of suicide.
Types
The different types of mental depression include major depression, atypical depression, dysthymia, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and seasonal affective disorder, according to the NIH.
Causes
The causes of mental depression, according to the NIH, include genetics, drug use, chronic stress, medical conditions, nutritional deficits and social isolation; however, some types of depression are caused by a stressful situation, such as a death in the family.
Treatment
The NIH says antidepressant medication and psychotherapy are often used to treat depression and are most effective when used together. In severe depression cases, hospitalization may be required.
Warning
Medical help should be sought immediately if the patient has thoughts of suicide, or has attempted suicide.
