While ordinary clinical depression is rife, well known and dreaded by most people, there are various sub types of depression which is just as damaging or even worse as far as symptoms go, but people tend to not be aware of it. One example is psychotic depression. As the name suggests, this form of the disorder is basically depression with psychotic features but due to its nature it can be misconstrued as a different disorder or not even recognized altogether.
What is Psychotic Depression?
The disorder is quite self-explanatory. The condition is typically the same as depression but it comprises of attributes associated with being delusional or even hallucinogenic. The hallucinations may be visual or auditory. Most depressed people are already being frowned upon by acquaintances due to their very negative nature and thus they may be not inclined to share these symptoms if experienced for fear of what their friends and family may believe. Psychotic depression is less severe than other psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia because in this case, the individual is well aware of their symptoms rather than believing that these delusions are real.
What are some of the Psychotic Depression Symptoms?
The symptoms of the ailment are no different to ordinary depression save a few distinctive attributes. Being indifferent, irritated and moody are common symptoms along with having an overall negative perception of life including feeling worthless or hopeless. Besides these distinctive attributes as aforementioned are being delusional as well as having hallucinations. Besides this, individuals may also develop anxiety related disorders due to the hallucinations exhibiting symptoms related to anxiety such as becoming overly concerned about your health and perpetually worrying about trivial issues.
What are some Psychotic Depression Treatment Options?
Treatments for the condition are similar to other forms of depression. Antidepressants are usually effective in calming the person and alleviating the depression symptoms. In addition, antipsychotic medications may be prescribed to get rid of the symptoms associated with psychosis, particularly the hallucinations.
Similar to antidepressants which stimulates serotonin release; antipsychotic medications alter brain chemistry to normal levels thereby getting rid of any unusual symptoms. Severe side effects are commonly experienced with both types of treatments. If side effects are becoming a matter of concern, alternative therapies may be looked at which can be just as effective as prescription medicine.
Psychotic depression can become very serious leading to other mental disorders if not treated promptly.