{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression","path":"/library/atypical-depression","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression","title":"Atypical Depression","family":"Library detail","description":"Atypical depression is a sub-type of depression that does not follow the 'typical' criteria of depressive disorders.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"custom-shared-preview","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/atypical-depression","wordpressId":"271","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/aimee-aveyard#person","name":"Aimee Aveyard","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/aimee-aveyard"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/tayler-hackett#person","name":"Tayler Hackett","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/tayler-hackett"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2022-12-19T08:57:46Z","dateModified":"2025-08-25T20:55:50Z","lastReviewed":"2022-12-19"},"content":{"html":"<nav class=\"breadcrumbs\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\"><ol><li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/\">Home</a></li><li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library\">Library</a></li><li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/depression\">Depression</a></li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">Atypical Depression</span></li></ol></nav><div class=\"article-page article-standard\" data-library-standard><div class=\"article-main-grid\"><header class=\"article-heading\"><h1>Atypical Depression</h1><p class=\"article-inline-credits\"><span>Written by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/aimee-aveyard\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/3049.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\">Aimee Aveyard</a></span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/tayler-hackett\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/101.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\">Tayler Hackett</a></span></p><div class=\"article-dates\"><span>Published on <time datetime=\"2022-12-19T08:57:46Z\">December 19, 2022</time></span><span aria-hidden=\"true\"> · </span><span>Updated on <time datetime=\"2025-08-25T20:55:50Z\">August 25, 2025</time></span></div></header><div class=\"article-jumpbar\"></div><div class=\"article-layout\"><div class=\"article-reading\"><article class=\"prose\" id=\"article-content\"><div class=\"article-intro\" data-source-field=\"hero\"><p>Atypical depression is a subtype of depression characterized by persistent low mood and a loss of interest in things that usually bring pleasure. It differs from other types of depressive disorders in several ways, including excessive eating (and weight gain), excessive sleeping and extreme sensitivity to rejection by others.</p></div><figure class=\"article-feature\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-18617.webp\" alt=\"A woman sits quietly on a sofa with her arms resting on her knees.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\"></figure><section class=\"article-takeaways\" aria-labelledby=\"key-takeaways\"><h2 id=\"key-takeaways\">Key takeaways</h2><ul><li>Atypical depression can include increased appetite, excessive sleep, and pronounced sensitivity to rejection.</li><li>Despite its name, atypical depression is a recognized and relatively common pattern of depressive symptoms.</li><li>Treatment may combine antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, and supportive self-care tailored to the individual.</li></ul></section><span id=\"what-is-atypical-depression-atypical-depression-is-a-common-kind-of-depression-the-term-atypical-doesn-t-mean-it-is-rare-this-is-just-the-term-used-to-distinguish-it-from-other-forms-of-depression-such-as-melancholic-or-catatonic\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"what-is-atypical-depression\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"what-is-atypical-depression\">What is atypical depression?</h2><p>\nAtypical depression is a common kind of depression. The term ‘atypical’ doesn’t mean it is rare – this is just the term used to distinguish it from other forms of depression, such as melancholic or catatonic.<sup><a href=\"#atypical-depression-psychiatry-edgmont-pa\" aria-label=\"Reference 1\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[1]</a></sup> As with other kinds of depressive disorder, the main symptoms are depressed mood and a loss of interest in things that usually bring pleasure, which can have a significant impact on a person’s life.\nIt differs from other forms of depression in various ways, notably overeating, oversleeping, extreme sensitivity to rejection by others and a feeling of heaviness or being weighed down. People with the atypical subtype of depression also find that their mood can lift when something good happens, which is not usually the case with other depressive subtypes or <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/mood-disorders\" class=\"article-inline-link\">mood disorders</a>.\n</p><span id=\"symptoms-of-atypical-depression-according-to-the\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"symptoms-of-atypical-depression\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"symptoms-of-atypical-depression\">Symptoms of atypical depression</h2><p>\nAccording to the <em><em>Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders<sup><a href=\"#diagnostic-statistical-manual-mental-disorders-5th-edition-dsm-5\" aria-label=\"Reference 2\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[2]</a></sup>, </em></em>used by mental health professionals in the US to diagnose mental health problems, someone with atypical depression must first meet the diagnostic criteria for depression. The symptoms are as follows and a person must have at least five of them, including one of the top two, for two weeks or more:\n</p><ul>\n    <li>Low mood, most of the time</li>\n    <li>Loss of interest in activities that would normally bring pleasure</li>\n    <li>Significant weight loss or gain</li>\n    <li>Sleep problems</li>\n    <li>Restlessness or feeling slowed down</li>\n    <li>Lack of energy or tiredness</li>\n    <li>Feelings of worthlessness or guilt</li>\n    <li>Difficulty concentrating</li>\n    <li>Suicidal thoughts, plans or attempts</li>\n</ul><p>\nPeople with atypical depression will also experience some or all of the following:\n</p><ul>\n    <li>An increase in appetite or desire to overeat, leading to significant weight gain</li>\n    <li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/hypersomnia\" class=\"article-inline-link\">Hypersomnia</a>, which is sleeping for much longer than usual</li>\n    <li>A heavy feeling in the limbs</li>\n    <li>Extreme sensitivity to rejection by other people</li>\n    <li>A mood that responds to external events, which is to say that the low mood lifts if something positive happens</li>\n</ul><span id=\"causes-of-atypical-depression-the-exact-causes-of-atypical-depression-are-unknown-as-with-other-forms-of-depression-and-other-mental-health-problems-it-is-likely-that-there-is-a-link-between-atypical-depression-and-the-levels-of-certain-chemicals-called-neurotransmitters-in-the-brain-neurotransmitters-include-dopamine-and-serotonin-which-can-affect-mood-sleep-appetite-and-other-functions\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"causes-of-atypical-depression\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"causes-of-atypical-depression\">Causes of atypical depression</h2><p>\nThe exact causes of atypical depression are unknown. As with other forms of depression and other mental health problems, it is likely that there is a link between atypical depression and the levels of certain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, in the brain. Neurotransmitters include dopamine and serotonin, which can affect mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions.<sup><a href=\"#mind\" aria-label=\"Reference 3\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[3]</a></sup>\nThere are also some known risk factors. The risk of developing atypical depression may be higher in someone who:\n</p><ul>\n    <li>Has a family member with atypical depression or a psychiatric disorder such as bipolar disorder<sup><a href=\"#atypical-depression-psychiatry-edgmont-pa\" aria-label=\"Reference 1\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[1]</a></sup></li>\n    <li>Experienced trauma or abuse as a child</li>\n    <li>Has experienced trauma or major stress in adulthood</li>\n    <li>Has a history of substance abuse</li>\n    <li>Has experienced a significant physical illness</li>\n    <li>Has experienced a recent loss or bereavement</li>\n</ul><span id=\"diagnosing-atypical-depression-according-to-the\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"diagnosing-atypical-depression\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"diagnosing-atypical-depression\">Diagnosing atypical depression</h2><p>\nAccording to the <em><em>Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders<sup><a href=\"#diagnostic-statistical-manual-mental-disorders-5th-edition-dsm-5\" aria-label=\"Reference 2\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[2]</a></sup></em></em>, atypical depression can be diagnosed if a person meets the criteria for depression, plus at least two of the symptoms for atypical depression listed above.\nDiagnosis is done by a doctor or other mental health professional following a psychological evaluation, which includes a discussion of the signs and symptoms of depression, a review of medical history and sometimes questionnaires.\n</p><span id=\"prevention-of-atypical-depression-depression-including-atypical-depression-can-t-necessarily-be-prevented-however-as-with-many-mental-health-problems-taking-steps-to-avoid-stress-getting-enough-sleep-and-avoiding-alcohol-and-drugs-may-reduce-the-risk-of-atypical-depression-developing\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"prevention-of-atypical-depression\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"prevention-of-atypical-depression\">Prevention of atypical depression</h2><p>\nDepression, including atypical depression, can’t necessarily be prevented. However, as with many mental health problems, taking steps to avoid stress, getting enough sleep and avoiding alcohol and drugs may reduce the risk of atypical depression developing.\n</p><span id=\"treatment-for-atypical-depression-effective-treatment-for-atypical-depression-includes-medication-and-therapy\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"treatment-for-atypical-depression\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"treatment-for-atypical-depression\">Treatment for atypical depression</h2><p>\nEffective treatment for atypical depression includes medication and therapy.<sup><a href=\"#american-psychiatric-association\" aria-label=\"Reference 4\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[4]</a></sup>\n</p><h3 id=\"medication-for-atypical-depression-your-doctor-or-healthcare-provider-may-prescribe-an\">Medication for atypical depression</h3><p>\nYour doctor or healthcare provider may prescribe an <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/antidepressants\" class=\"article-inline-link\">antidepressant medication</a> to help alleviate the depressive symptoms of atypical depression. These work by regulating chemicals in the brain that help control mood, sleep, and appetite, among other functions.\n</p><h3 id=\"therapy-for-atypical-depression-there-are-several-different-kinds-of\">Therapy for atypical depression<em><em>\n</em></em></h3><p>\nThere are several different kinds of <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/therapy\" class=\"article-inline-link\">therapy</a> that can help patients with depression, including:\n</p><ul>\n    <li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/cognitive-behavioral-therapy\" class=\"article-inline-link\">Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)</a>, which explores how we think and act and can help us find ways to cope with difficult emotions.</li>\n    <li>Interpersonal therapy, which looks at an individual’s personal relationships and how they might be improved.</li>\n    <li><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/psychodynamic-theories\" class=\"article-inline-link\">Psychodynamic therapy</a>, which looks at our unconscious thoughts and our past, and how this might be affecting our low mood.</li>\n</ul><span id=\"self-care-for-atypical-depression-living-with-atypical-depression-can-be-difficult-but-there-are-things-you-can-do-to-support-your-own-wellbeing\" class=\"section-anchor-alias\" data-section-alias=\"self-care-for-atypical-depression\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><h2 id=\"self-care-for-atypical-depression\">Self-care for atypical depression</h2><p>\nLiving with atypical depression can be difficult but there are things you can do to support your own wellbeing:\n</p><h3 id=\"talk-opening-up-to-someone-you-know-you-can-trust-can-help-you-feel-less-alone\">Talk</h3><p>\nOpening up to someone you know you can trust can help you feel less alone.\n</p><h3 id=\"take-care-of-your-physical-wellbeing-staying-active-keeping-your-blood-sugar-on-an-even-keel-and-avoiding-alcohol-and-drugs-will-serve-your-mind-as-well-as-your-body\">Take care of your physical wellbeing</h3><p>\nStaying active, keeping your blood sugar on an even keel and avoiding alcohol and drugs will serve your mind as well as your body.\n</p><h3 id=\"try-mindfulness-mindful-meditation-has-been-linked-to-lower-levels-of-depression\">Try mindfulness</h3><p>\nMindful meditation has been linked to lower levels of depression <sup><a href=\"#mindfulness-symptoms-depression-anxiety-general-population-mediating-roles-worry\" aria-label=\"Reference 5\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[5]</a></sup> and there are many free and low-cost apps that will guide you in short daily sessions.\n</p><h3 id=\"get-outside-research-has-shown-that-ecotherapy-being-outdoors-in-nature-for-exercise-or-activities-such-as-gardening-can-improve-wellbeing\">Get outside</h3><p>\nResearch has shown that ‘ecotherapy’ – being outdoors in nature for exercise or activities such as gardening – can improve wellbeing.<sup><a href=\"#university-essex\" aria-label=\"Reference 6\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[6]</a></sup>\n</p><h2 id=\"faqs-about-atypical-depression\">FAQs about atypical depression</h2><h3 id=\"how-common-is-atypical-depression-around-21-million-americans-have-had-an-episode-of-major-depression\">How common is atypical depression?</h3><p>\nAround 21 million Americans have had an episode of major depression.<sup><a href=\"#national-institute-mental-health\" aria-label=\"Reference 7\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[7]</a></sup> Clinical studies show that between 15 and 29 per cent of people with depression have atypical depression.<sup><a href=\"#atypical-depression-current-perspectives\" aria-label=\"Reference 8\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[8]</a></sup>\n</p><h3 id=\"atypical-depression-vs-melancholic-depression-what-is-the-difference-atypical-depression-and-melancholic-depression-share-many-common-characteristics-but-have-a-few-key-differences\">Atypical depression vs melancholic depression – what is the difference?</h3><p>\nAtypical depression and melancholic depression share many common characteristics, but have a few key differences.<sup><a href=\"#diagnostic-statistical-manual-mental-disorders-5th-edition-dsm-5\" aria-label=\"Reference 2\" class=\"article-inline-link article-citation\">[2]</a></sup>\n</p><p>All subtypes of depression have the core symptoms of persistent low mood and a loss of interest in things that would usually give the person pleasure.</p><p>People with atypical depression have specific atypical symptoms including overeating and weight gain, and oversleeping. They will also find their mood lifts when something good happens.</p><p>In contrast, someone with melancholic depression may experience a loss of appetite and lose weight and is likely to wake up early rather than oversleep. Their mood is not usually lifted by external, positive events.</p></article><div class=\"article-endmatter\"><section class=\"article-sources\" id=\"references\" data-source-references=\"\" data-reference-list=\"\" data-reference-style=\"author-date-numbered\"><h2 id=\"references-2\">References</h2><ol>\n    <li id=\"atypical-depression-psychiatry-edgmont-pa\" data-reference-number=\"1\">Tanvir Singh MD and Kristi Williams MD, (2006), Atypical Depression, Psychiatry (Edgmont, PA). Retrieved November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2990566/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">National Library of Medicine</a></li>\n    <li id=\"diagnostic-statistical-manual-mental-disorders-5th-edition-dsm-5\" data-reference-number=\"2\">American Psychiatric Association. (2013, May 27). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition: DSM-5(5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">American Psychiatric Association</a></li>\n    <li id=\"mind\" data-reference-number=\"3\">(2019, March). Mind. United Kingdom. Retrieve November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/depression/causes/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Mind</a></li>\n    <li id=\"american-psychiatric-association\" data-reference-number=\"4\">Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Depression Across Three Age Cohorts. (2019). American Psychiatric Association. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.apa.org/depression-guideline\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">American Psychological Association</a></li>\n    <li id=\"mindfulness-symptoms-depression-anxiety-general-population-mediating-roles-worry\" data-reference-number=\"5\">Fabrice B R Parmentier et al. (2019). Mindfulness and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in the General Population: The Mediating Roles of Worry, Rumination, Reappraisal and Suppression. Frontiers in Psychology. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6418017/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">National Library of Medicine</a></li>\n    <li id=\"university-essex\" data-reference-number=\"6\">Rachel Bragg, Carly Wood and Jo Barton. (2013). University of Essex. United Kingdom. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.mind.org.uk/media/4418/ecominds-effects-on-mental-wellbeing-evaluation-report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Mind</a></li>\n    <li id=\"national-institute-mental-health\" data-reference-number=\"7\">Major Depression. (2022, January). National Institute of Mental Health. Bethesda, MD. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">National Institute of Mental Health</a></li>\n    <li id=\"atypical-depression-current-perspectives\" data-reference-number=\"8\">Dorota Lojko and Janusz K Rybakowski. (2017). Atypical depression: current perspectives. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. Dove Press. United Kingdom. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from <a href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5614762/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">National Library of Medicine</a></li>\n</ol></section><section class=\"article-medical article-panel\"><h2 id=\"medical-content\">Medical Content</h2><p><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/clinical-affairs\">The Clinical Affairs Team</a> at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the <a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/publishing/editorial-policy\">Editorial Policy</a>.</p></section><section class=\"article-about article-panel\"><h2 id=\"about-mentalhealth-com\">About MentalHealth.com</h2><p>MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.</p><div class=\"article-contributors\"><section class=\"article-bio\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/3049.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Author</p><h3 id=\"aimee-aveyard\"><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/aimee-aveyard\">Aimee Aveyard</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">Writer</p><p>Aimee Aveyard is a medical writer with 20+ years of experience in communications.</p><dl><div><dt>Published</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2022-12-19T08:57:46Z\">December 19, 2022</time></dd></div><div><dt>Updated</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2025-08-25T20:55:50Z\">August 25, 2025</time></dd></div></dl></div></section><section class=\"article-bio\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/101.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Medical Reviewer</p><h3 id=\"tayler-hackett\"><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/tayler-hackett\">Tayler Hackett</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">BSc, PGCert</p><p>Talyer Hackett is a medical writer and researcher with 10+ years of experience, holding B.A. in Psychology from the University of Liverpool.</p><dl><div><dt>Reviewed</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2022-12-19\">December 19, 2022</time></dd></div></dl></div></section></div></section><section class=\"article-expert article-expert-mobile\" aria-label=\"Subject matter expert\" data-expert-kind=\"related\"><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Subject matter expert</p><div class=\"article-expert-identity\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/9447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><h2><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/simone-hoermann\">Simone Hoermann <span class=\"expert-credentials\">Ph.D.</span></a></h2></div><p class=\"article-expert-focus\">Personality disorders, anxiety, and depression</p><a class=\"profile-experience-link experience-button\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/simone-hoermann\">View experience</a></section><section class=\"article-topic-community article-topic-community-mobile\" aria-label=\"Related communities\"><img class=\"topic-community-banner\" src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-12230.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" loading=\"lazy\"><p class=\"topic-community-label\">Related communities</p><h2>Depression</h2><p>A place for understanding depression and sharing perspectives on its impact on daily life.</p><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/community/depression\">Explore community</a></section></div></div><aside class=\"article-sidebar\" tabindex=\"0\" data-bounded-rail=\"\" aria-label=\"Article navigation and related information\"><details class=\"article-contents\" open data-section-preview=\"3\" data-expanded=\"false\" data-scrolled-past=\"false\"><summary><strong>Table of contents</strong><span aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><small data-current-section=\"\">Choose a section</small></summary><nav aria-label=\"Article contents\"><ol id=\"article-section-list\"><li><a href=\"#what-is-atypical-depression\" title=\"What is atypical depression?\" aria-label=\"What is atypical depression?\">What is atypical depression?</a></li><li><a href=\"#symptoms-of-atypical-depression\" title=\"Symptoms of atypical depression\" aria-label=\"Symptoms of atypical depression\">Symptoms of atypical depression</a></li><li><a href=\"#causes-of-atypical-depression\" title=\"Causes of atypical depression\" aria-label=\"Causes of atypical depression\">Causes of atypical depression</a></li><li><a href=\"#diagnosing-atypical-depression\" title=\"Diagnosing atypical depression\" aria-label=\"Diagnosing atypical depression\">Diagnosing atypical depression</a></li><li><a href=\"#prevention-of-atypical-depression\" title=\"Prevention of atypical depression\" aria-label=\"Prevention of atypical depression\">Prevention of atypical depression</a></li><li><a href=\"#treatment-for-atypical-depression\" title=\"Treatment for atypical depression\" aria-label=\"Treatment for atypical depression\">Treatment for atypical depression</a></li><li><a href=\"#self-care-for-atypical-depression\" title=\"Self-care for atypical depression\" aria-label=\"Self-care for atypical depression\">Self-care for atypical depression</a></li><li><a href=\"#faqs-about-atypical-depression\" title=\"FAQs about atypical depression\" aria-label=\"FAQs about atypical depression\">FAQs about atypical depression</a></li></ol><button type=\"button\" class=\"article-sections-toggle\" data-sections-toggle aria-controls=\"article-section-list\" aria-expanded=\"false\">View more</button></nav></details><section class=\"article-expert\" aria-label=\"Subject matter expert\" data-expert-kind=\"related\"><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Subject matter expert</p><div class=\"article-expert-identity\"><img src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/9447.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><h2><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/simone-hoermann\">Simone Hoermann <span class=\"expert-credentials\">Ph.D.</span></a></h2></div><p class=\"article-expert-focus\">Personality disorders, anxiety, and depression</p><a class=\"profile-experience-link experience-button\" href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/simone-hoermann\">View experience</a></section><section class=\"article-topic-community\" aria-label=\"Related communities\"><img class=\"topic-community-banner\" src=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-12230.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" loading=\"lazy\"><p class=\"topic-community-label\">Related communities</p><h2>Depression</h2><p>A place for understanding depression and sharing perspectives on its impact on daily life.</p><a href=\"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/community/depression\">Explore community</a></section></aside></div></div></div>","text":"HomeLibraryDepressionAtypical DepressionAtypical DepressionWritten by Aimee AveyardMedically reviewed by Tayler HackettPublished on December 19, 2022 · Updated on August 25, 2025Atypical depression is a subtype of depression characterized by persistent low mood and a loss of interest in things that usually bring pleasure. It differs from other types of depressive disorders in several ways, including excessive eating (and weight gain), excessive sleeping and extreme sensitivity to rejection by others.Key takeawaysAtypical depression can include increased appetite, excessive sleep, and pronounced sensitivity to rejection.Despite its name, atypical depression is a recognized and relatively common pattern of depressive symptoms.Treatment may combine antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, and supportive self-care tailored to the individual.What is atypical depression? Atypical depression is a common kind of depression. The term ‘atypical’ doesn’t mean it is rare – this is just the term used to distinguish it from other forms of depression, such as melancholic or catatonic.[1] As with other kinds of depressive disorder, the main symptoms are depressed mood and a loss of interest in things that usually bring pleasure, which can have a significant impact on a person’s life. It differs from other forms of depression in various ways, notably overeating, oversleeping, extreme sensitivity to rejection by others and a feeling of heaviness or being weighed down. People with the atypical subtype of depression also find that their mood can lift when something good happens, which is not usually the case with other depressive subtypes or mood disorders. Symptoms of atypical depression According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders[2], used by mental health professionals in the US to diagnose mental health problems, someone with atypical depression must first meet the diagnostic criteria for depression. The symptoms are as follows and a person must have at least five of them, including one of the top two, for two weeks or more: Low mood, most of the time Loss of interest in activities that would normally bring pleasure Significant weight loss or gain Sleep problems Restlessness or feeling slowed down Lack of energy or tiredness Feelings of worthlessness or guilt Difficulty concentrating Suicidal thoughts, plans or attempts People with atypical depression will also experience some or all of the following: An increase in appetite or desire to overeat, leading to significant weight gain Hypersomnia, which is sleeping for much longer than usual A heavy feeling in the limbs Extreme sensitivity to rejection by other people A mood that responds to external events, which is to say that the low mood lifts if something positive happens Causes of atypical depression The exact causes of atypical depression are unknown. As with other forms of depression and other mental health problems, it is likely that there is a link between atypical depression and the levels of certain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, in the brain. Neurotransmitters include dopamine and serotonin, which can affect mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions.[3] There are also some known risk factors. The risk of developing atypical depression may be higher in someone who: Has a family member with atypical depression or a psychiatric disorder such as bipolar disorder[1] Experienced trauma or abuse as a child Has experienced trauma or major stress in adulthood Has a history of substance abuse Has experienced a significant physical illness Has experienced a recent loss or bereavement Diagnosing atypical depression According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders[2], atypical depression can be diagnosed if a person meets the criteria for depression, plus at least two of the symptoms for atypical depression listed above. Diagnosis is done by a doctor or other mental health professional following a psychological evaluation, which includes a discussion of the signs and symptoms of depression, a review of medical history and sometimes questionnaires. Prevention of atypical depression Depression, including atypical depression, can’t necessarily be prevented. However, as with many mental health problems, taking steps to avoid stress, getting enough sleep and avoiding alcohol and drugs may reduce the risk of atypical depression developing. Treatment for atypical depression Effective treatment for atypical depression includes medication and therapy.[4] Medication for atypical depression Your doctor or healthcare provider may prescribe an antidepressant medication to help alleviate the depressive symptoms of atypical depression. These work by regulating chemicals in the brain that help control mood, sleep, and appetite, among other functions. Therapy for atypical depression There are several different kinds of therapy that can help patients with depression, including: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which explores how we think and act and can help us find ways to cope with difficult emotions. Interpersonal therapy, which looks at an individual’s personal relationships and how they might be improved. Psychodynamic therapy, which looks at our unconscious thoughts and our past, and how this might be affecting our low mood. Self-care for atypical depression Living with atypical depression can be difficult but there are things you can do to support your own wellbeing: Talk Opening up to someone you know you can trust can help you feel less alone. Take care of your physical wellbeing Staying active, keeping your blood sugar on an even keel and avoiding alcohol and drugs will serve your mind as well as your body. Try mindfulness Mindful meditation has been linked to lower levels of depression [5] and there are many free and low-cost apps that will guide you in short daily sessions. Get outside Research has shown that ‘ecotherapy’ – being outdoors in nature for exercise or activities such as gardening – can improve wellbeing.[6] FAQs about atypical depressionHow common is atypical depression? Around 21 million Americans have had an episode of major depression.[7] Clinical studies show that between 15 and 29 per cent of people with depression have atypical depression.[8] Atypical depression vs melancholic depression – what is the difference? Atypical depression and melancholic depression share many common characteristics, but have a few key differences.[2] All subtypes of depression have the core symptoms of persistent low mood and a loss of interest in things that would usually give the person pleasure.People with atypical depression have specific atypical symptoms including overeating and weight gain, and oversleeping. They will also find their mood lifts when something good happens.In contrast, someone with melancholic depression may experience a loss of appetite and lose weight and is likely to wake up early rather than oversleep. Their mood is not usually lifted by external, positive events.References Tanvir Singh MD and Kristi Williams MD, (2006), Atypical Depression, Psychiatry (Edgmont, PA). Retrieved November 19, 2022, from National Library of Medicine American Psychiatric Association. (2013, May 27). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition: DSM-5(5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from American Psychiatric Association (2019, March). Mind. United Kingdom. Retrieve November 19, 2022, from Mind Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Depression Across Three Age Cohorts. (2019). American Psychiatric Association. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from American Psychological Association Fabrice B R Parmentier et al. (2019). Mindfulness and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in the General Population: The Mediating Roles of Worry, Rumination, Reappraisal and Suppression. Frontiers in Psychology. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from National Library of Medicine Rachel Bragg, Carly Wood and Jo Barton. (2013). University of Essex. United Kingdom. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from Mind Major Depression. (2022, January). National Institute of Mental Health. Bethesda, MD. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from National Institute of Mental Health Dorota Lojko and Janusz K Rybakowski. (2017). Atypical depression: current perspectives. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. Dove Press. United Kingdom. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from National Library of Medicine Medical ContentThe Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.About MentalHealth.comMentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.AuthorAimee AveyardWriterAimee Aveyard is a medical writer with 20+ years of experience in communications.PublishedDecember 19, 2022UpdatedAugust 25, 2025Medical ReviewerTayler HackettBSc, PGCertTalyer Hackett is a medical writer and researcher with 10+ years of experience, holding B.A. in Psychology from the University of Liverpool.ReviewedDecember 19, 2022Subject matter expertSimone Hoermann Ph.D.Personality disorders, anxiety, and depressionView experienceRelated communitiesDepressionA place for understanding depression and sharing perspectives on its impact on daily life.Explore communityTable of contentsChoose a sectionWhat is atypical depression?Symptoms of atypical depressionCauses of atypical depressionDiagnosing atypical depressionPrevention of atypical depressionTreatment for atypical depressionSelf-care for atypical depressionFAQs about atypical depressionView moreSubject matter expertSimone Hoermann Ph.D.Personality disorders, anxiety, and depressionView experienceRelated communitiesDepressionA place for understanding depression and sharing perspectives on its impact on daily life.Explore community","wordCount":1454},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#website","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Depression","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/depression"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Atypical Depression","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#primaryimage","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-18617.webp","contentUrl":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/library/editorial-18617.webp","width":1200,"height":675,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A woman sits quietly on a sofa with her arms resting on her knees."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/aimee-aveyard#person","name":"Aimee Aveyard","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/aimee-aveyard","jobTitle":"Writer","image":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/3049.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-aveyard/"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/tayler-hackett#person","name":"Tayler Hackett","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/tayler-hackett","jobTitle":"BSc, PGCert","image":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/wordpress/101.webp"},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#article","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression","headline":"Atypical Depression","description":"Atypical depression is a sub-type of depression that does not follow the 'typical' criteria of depressive disorders.","wordCount":1041,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization"},"articleSection":"Library","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Tanvir Singh MD and Kristi Williams MD, (2006), Atypical Depression, Psychiatry (Edgmont, PA). 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Retrieved November 19, 2022, from National Library of Medicine","links":[{"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2990566/","label":"National Library of Medicine"}],"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2990566/"},{"number":2,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#diagnostic-statistical-manual-mental-disorders-5th-edition-dsm-5","text":"American Psychiatric Association. (2013, May 27). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition: DSM-5(5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from American Psychiatric Association","links":[{"url":"https://psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm","label":"American Psychiatric Association"}],"url":"https://psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm"},{"number":3,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#mind","text":"(2019, March). Mind. United Kingdom. Retrieve November 19, 2022, from Mind","links":[{"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/depression/causes/","label":"Mind"}],"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/depression/causes/"},{"number":4,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#american-psychiatric-association","text":"Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Depression Across Three Age Cohorts. (2019). American Psychiatric Association. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from American Psychological Association","links":[{"url":"https://www.apa.org/depression-guideline","label":"American Psychological Association"}],"url":"https://www.apa.org/depression-guideline"},{"number":5,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#mindfulness-symptoms-depression-anxiety-general-population-mediating-roles-worry","text":"Fabrice B R Parmentier et al. (2019). Mindfulness and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in the General Population: The Mediating Roles of Worry, Rumination, Reappraisal and Suppression. Frontiers in Psychology. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from National Library of Medicine","links":[{"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6418017/","label":"National Library of Medicine"}],"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6418017/"},{"number":6,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#university-essex","text":"Rachel Bragg, Carly Wood and Jo Barton. (2013). University of Essex. United Kingdom. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from Mind","links":[{"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/media/4418/ecominds-effects-on-mental-wellbeing-evaluation-report.pdf","label":"Mind"}],"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/media/4418/ecominds-effects-on-mental-wellbeing-evaluation-report.pdf"},{"number":7,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#national-institute-mental-health","text":"Major Depression. (2022, January). National Institute of Mental Health. Bethesda, MD. Retrieved November 19, 2022, from National Institute of Mental Health","links":[{"url":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression","label":"National Institute of Mental Health"}],"url":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression"},{"number":8,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/atypical-depression#atypical-depression-current-perspectives","text":"Dorota Lojko and Janusz K Rybakowski. (2017). Atypical depression: current perspectives. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. Dove Press. United Kingdom. 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