Among the various subtypes of depression, atypical depression is the most common. Atypical depression affects between 25 and 42 percent of people suffering from depression, according to Dr. Andrew Nierenberg, M.D., associate director of the Depression and Clinical Research Program at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Symptoms

Depression that is rapidly brightened by positive events is a symptom more commonly experienced by those suffering from atypical depression when compared with major depression. Additionally, patients afflicted by atypical depression have more trouble performing everyday tasks than those with non-atypical depression.

Treatment

Atypical depression is treated by use of antidepressant medication. Nardil, a type of monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), was found to have a 72 percent success rate in treating atypical depression, while imipramine was found to have a 44 percent success rate, according to a 1993 study published in British Journal of Psychiatry.

Talking Therapy

In a study published in the 1999 Archives of General Psychiatry, the use of talking therapy was tested as a treatment for atypical depression. Cognitive therapy was found to be effective in treating atypical depression, having a 60 percent success rate over a 10-week period.

Risk Factors

In a study conducted by multiple mental health treatment centers, it was found that 36.4 percent of people suffering from depression were afflicted by atypical depression. Women, those with other psychiatric problems, and victims of sexual abuse and childhood neglect were found to be more likely to be afflicted with atypical depression, according to award-winning mental health journalist John McManamy.

Taking Action

It is recommended that those who have been experiencing feelings of depression for an extended period of time seek the help of a psychiatrist. A qualified psychiatrist will be able to diagnose the subtype of depression present, and recommend methods of treatment to resolve the issue.

Source:

McMan's Depression and Bipolar Web: Atypical Depression

WorkPsych Associates: Atypical Depression

PubMed.gov: Treatment of atypical depression with cognitive therapy or phenelzine

More Information:

PubMed.gov: Depression With Atypical Features