People might get depressed for a litany of reasons, such as going through a life-altering experience. If you’ve been diagnosed with depression, your doctor could use medication, therapy, and other techniques to treat it. Here are the differences between situational and clinical depressive disorders:
Professional Diagnosis
Situational or reactive depression is a temporary response to a life-altering event. You may experience this after losing a loved one or going through a divorce. Financial hardship, traumatic accidents, and even childbirth might also cause situational stress. The adjustment disorder usually features mood swings, irritability, isolation, and sleep issues. Treatment involves accepting changes with the help of a licensed psychotherapist.
Clinical or major depressive disorder is a more severe condition that can interfere with your everyday routine and function. The mood disorder may be attributed to changes in neurotransmitters, genetic factors, major life events, and alcohol or drug dependence. If you have issues making poor life decisions or major regrets, they can also lead to major depression. The disorder can alter your thought process and bodily functions, resulting in severe symptoms.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
Reactive disorders are linked to specific events. The condition usually stems from the difficulty you face adjusting to a life-altering event. Symptoms range from sadness and irritability to hopelessness and lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Major depressive disorder can manifest as consistently mild or occasionally severe symptoms that may occur without clear triggers.
The disorder can stem from biological, genetic, or chemical imbalances in your brain. Symptoms include profound sadness, changes in sleep and appetite, and feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. You may also have self-harm thoughts, lack of emotions, weight changes, lethargy, and inability to concentrate. The symptoms usually last for weeks, months, or longer. A psychologist can diagnose the symptoms and review your medical history to determine whether the disorder is situational or clinical.
Duration and Treatment
The symptoms of reactive stress disorders can improve as you adjust to the stressful event or situation. Recovery varies and can take weeks or months, depending on the severity of the condition. Major depressive disorders have symptoms that last several months or years and require professional treatments, such as therapy or medication. The recovery timeline varies from patient to patient due to factors ranging from medical history to genetics, and adherence to treatment plans.
Treatment for situational or temporary adjustment disorders involves support from therapists and your social circle, coping strategies, and addressing underlying stressors. Therapy and counseling can also be helpful. Major depressive disorder likely requires more comprehensive treatment, utilizing psychotherapy, antidepressant prescriptions, and support groups. The psychotherapist can perform an evaluation and prescribe medication or refer you to another specialist. Treatment also involves identifying and changing negative thoughts and recommending lifestyle changes to improve mood.
Get Professional Help for Depression Today
Psychotherapists offer personalized, compassionate care for patients with mental health disorders. If you have the symptoms of reactive or major depressive disorder, seek professional help immediately. Contact a psychotherapist today to learn more about situational and clinical depression and treatment.
