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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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Mental health conditions can take many forms, and depression is no exception. Atypical depression is a subtype of major depressive disorder that features specific symptoms. Despite its name, atypical depression is not uncommon. In fact, it's one of the most prevalent subtypes of depression. This article delves into the characteristics of atypical depression, how it differs from other forms, and the available treatment options.
Atypical depression refers to depression that has certain characteristics that differentiate it from the symptoms of a typical major depressive episode. People with atypical depression might exhibit mood reactivity, which means their mood brightens in response to positive events. However, this momentary improvement does not mean the depression is gone, as other symptoms remain present and can cause significant distress.
Additional symptoms of atypical depression can include increased appetite or weight gain, sleeping more than usual (hypersomnia), a heavy feeling in the arms or legs (leaden paralysis), and a high level of sensitivity to perceived criticism or rejection. These symptoms set atypical depression apart from other depressive disorders, which usually involve decreased appetite, insomnia, and less emphasis on rejection sensitivity.
The main distinguishing factor of atypical depression is its symptom profile, especially mood reactivity. Where other forms of depression usually cause sufferers to feel persistently low regardless of circumstances, those with atypical depression may see their mood temporarily lifted by a positive event, such as a visit from a loved one or a compliment from a stranger.
The physical symptoms — including increased sleep, appetite or weight gain, and a heavy feeling in the limbs — are also more characteristic of atypical depression than other forms. Additionally, the sensitivity to rejection in social or romantic situations can lead to avoiding these situations for fear of criticism, making interpersonal relationships difficult for individuals with atypical depression.
Treatment for atypical depression often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals recognize and change negative thinking patterns, while interpersonal therapy (IPT) can assist in resolving relationship issues that might contribute to depressive symptoms.
Medication-wise, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and certain types of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) have shown to be effective. It's important to note that treatment should be individualized, and what works best will depend on the person's specific symptoms, overall health, the presence of any co-occurring mental or physical health disorders, and their personal response to medication.
While dealing with atypical depression can be challenging, understanding its nuances aids in seeking effective treatment. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and there are resources available to guide you through this journey. With the right treatment plan, managing atypical depression and achieving a better quality of life is possible.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.
You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.
Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.
We infuse cognitive behavioral techniques in our group therapy sessions for depression. Get effective and affordable treatment for depression.
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