Atypical Depression: Symptoms, Treatments, and Diagnosis

Atypical depression (also called major depression with atypical features) is a specific type of depression in which the symptoms vary from the traditional criteria. One symptom specific to atypical depression is a temporary mood improvement in response to actual or potential positive events. This is known as mood reactivity.

Atypical Depression

How common is atypical depression?

Depression is quite prevalent, affecting approximately 121 million people worldwide. Despite its name, atypical depression is actually quite common affecting 18 to 36% of people with a depressive disorder.

Atypical depression is at least twice more likely to affect women than men. In addition, atypical depression tends to begin at an earlier age (teen years and early 20s) and last longer (often becoming a chronic condition) than typical depression.

What are the symptoms of atypical depression?

In addition to mood reactivity (described under “what is atypical depression”), people with atypical depression have at least two of the following symptoms:

Increase in appetite and/or significant weight gain
Excessive sleepiness (hypersomnia)
Heavy feeling in the arms or legs (also called leaden paralysis)
Intense reaction and increased sensitivity to criticism or rejection, which results in significant social and work impairment

These symptoms differ from typical depression symptoms, which often include a loss of appetite and insomnia (difficulty falling and/or staying asleep). In addition, the mood of people with typical depression usually does not improve, even when good things happen.

What causes atypical depression?

Doctors do not know exactly why some people experience depression or atypical depression. However, theories include:

Impaired functioning of neurotransmitters (chemicals that carry brain signals to other parts of the body) and/or neuroreceptors (the “receivers” of the signals)
Genetics (having a family member with mood disorders including bipolar disorder and dysthymia [long-term depression] may also contribute to the development of atypical depression
Trauma
Stress

Additional risk factors for the development of atypical depression include:

Negative childhood experiences
Emotional, physical or sexual abuse
Significant illness
Grief following a significant loss
History of substance abuse

How is atypical depression diagnosed?

Diagnosis of atypical depression is made based upon an evaluation of your symptoms. A doctor will perform a physical exam to rule out physical causes of depressive symptoms such as a thyroid disorder. He or she will ask if you have a family history of mental health issues or depression. Your doctor will also ask about your behaviors and feelings and may refer you to a behavioral health specialist (psychologist or psychiatrist) for diagnosis and treatment.

How is atypical depression treated?

Atypical depression often responds well to treatment. Your treatment may vary depending on the condition’s severity. Treatments for atypical depression include:

Antidepressant medications to help regulate your brain chemistry
Lifestyle changes such as exercising or quitting alcohol or recreational drug use
Psychotherapy (talking with a mental health professional) to:
- Learn coping strategies for negative or unhealthy thoughts
- Improve interpersonal relationships
- Resolve trauma

What are the side effects of treatment?

Some of the medications used to treat atypical depression can have side effects. Side effects can include:

Nausea/diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Headaches
Insomnia
Loss of sex drive

Side effects usually improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If side effects don’t lessen, your doctor can help you by suggesting different types of medications that may work better for you.

What are the complications associated with atypical depression?

People with atypical depression may experience complications and other mental health disorders including:

Alcohol or drug use as a coping method
Binge eating and weight gain due to increased appetite
Increase in anxiety
Relationship conflict
Thoughts of suicide (suicidal ideation)

How can you prevent atypical depression?

Atypical depression is not always preventable. Steps you can take to reduce your risk of the disorder include:

Manage stress
Seek medical help at the first sign of depression
Talk about your feelings with someone you trust

What is the prognosis (outlook) for people with atypical depression?

Depression is a serious medical condition with serious potential outcomes if left untreated including:

Increased risk of suicide
Worsening of medical illness
Increased conflict in relationships
Increased risk of substance abuse
Increased missed time and loss of effort at work

However, with appropriate treatment, 70 to 80% of individuals with a major depressive disorder can greatly improve their symptoms, although as many as 50% of patients may not respond to the initial treatment trial.

When should I see a healthcare provider about atypical depression?

Seek emergency medical help if you have thoughts of harming yourself or suicide. If you are experiencing sad mood or a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities for a period of 2 weeks, make an appointment with your healthcare provider or talk to someone you trust such as a friend, family member or faith leader.