The different kinds of depression disorders

If you think that you or a loved one might be experiencing depression, it's important to reach out and seek appropriate support right away. Learn more about recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression. 

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

Distinct periods of depression lasting 2 weeks or more of persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness or hopelessness. This can include changes in appetite or weight, getting more or less sleep than usual, or thoughts of death or suicide.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

A shift in mood around the days of your period with feelings like depression, rejection sensitivity, low energy, anxiety, and self critical thoughts. 

Persistent depressive disorder (Dysthymia)

2 or more years of persistent low severity symptoms of depression which can include reduced interest in enjoyable activities, worthlessness, guilt, low energy, restlessness, or difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)

Persistent irritability in kids 6 to 18 years old, with frequent bursts of severe aggression or acting out in ways that seem extreme for the situation.

Some key specifiers

Specifiers tell us more information about the characteristics of your depression experience, helping us tailor and refine your treatment plan to improve your symptoms.

Seasonal Pattern (Seasonal Affective Disorder SAD)

Depressive episodes occur in a seasonal pattern, e.g. fall or winter.

Atypical Features

Increased appetite, sleep, weight gain & feel heavy during a depressive episode.

Mixed Features

Experiencing symptoms of mania or hypomania during a depressive episode.

Peripartum Onset (Postpartum Depression)

Depressive episodes occur during pregnancy or in the postpartum period.

Psychotic Features

Experiencing delusions or hallucinations during a depressive episode.

Anxious Distress

Experiencing symptoms of anxiety during a depressive episode.
There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.

​– John Green

1 in 8 Canadians will experience a major depressive episode

What you can do

Adult Depression Assessment

Depression is very common, and highly treatable. If you or a loved one has felt concerned about your well-being, seeking professional help can clarify your next steps forward toward a healthier, happier life. Together, we can get a better understanding of your experiences, and how your quality of life and well-being can get better from here.

Depression Counselling

Over 80% of Canadians with depression report significant improvement through appropriate treatment involving a combination of therapy and lifestyle changes, and sometimes with the help of medication. Counselling is highly effective in supporting a better quality of life for kids, teens, and adults affected by depression. The first step is reaching out.
 The frequent attempt to conceal mental pain increases the burden: it is easier to say, “My tooth is aching,” than to say, “My heart is broken.”

- C.S. Lewis

You're not alone

We're here to walk along side you and support you in your journey to a more satisfying life. Real healing and personal growth that lasts beyond the temporary relief of distraction, lies in the power of conscious engagement in the therapeutic process. Together, we can explore the root source of your experiences of depression and uncover a meaningful path forward toward a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling quality of life. Reach out to take the first step toward the next chapter of your life. 
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