We usually hear about depression or melancholia, but very rarely both together. Yet, melancholic depression does indeed exist! In fact, it is recognized as a genuine illness. Previously considered a malaise affecting only artists, this illness now affects more and more people, from workers to retirees, young and old alike. What exactly is this illness called melancholic depression?
Melancholic depression: an illness that is not new.
Ancient civilizations believed that depression or melancholy was caused by the presence of black bile in the body. These ailments would later be demonized centuries later with the rise of Christianity. During the Renaissance, profound melancholy (which can be compared to melancholic depression) gained prominence, thanks to artists who frequently depicted it in their works. However, at that time, it was associated with the spleen of artists. It wasn’t until the 20th century that melancholy was given a medical definition, at which point it was considered the most severe form of depression.
Melancholic depression: a profound malaise
Nowadays, melancholic depression is defined as the depressive episode of manic-depressive psychosis. Quite complicated terms for “extreme depression”.
When a person suffers from melancholic depression, they experience all the symptoms of depression, but to a much more severe degree. However, certain signs clearly distinguish melancholic depression from simple depression or melancholia, including: intense hopelessness, self-deprecation, complete lack of motivation, and a loss of the will to live (leading to significant suicidal thoughts). Melancholic depression begins by affecting the patient’s state of mind and eventually permeates every aspect of their life, affecting both their physical and mental well-being.
The causes of the illness are generally associated with manic-depressive psychosis (sudden mood changes accompanied by melancholy), neurological disorders, or in some cases, a triggering event (which is a source of trauma).
Melancholic depression should not be confused with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which appears with the first cold weather, lack of sunlight, and shorter days. While the two types of depression may share some similarities, SAD is much easier to treat than melancholic depression because its causes are deeper. In both cases, light therapy is a possible treatment and generally yields rapid results, especially for those who have lost all desire and motivation.
An idea of ​​the symptoms:
- Persistent sadness: upon waking, the individual suffering from melancholic depression lacks willpower, feels sad and does not know how to fight this summer.
- Feeling of guilt
- Insomnia
- Appetite disorders
- Bad mood
- Dark thoughts, even suicidal ideation
Can melancholic depression be treated?
The answer is yes! However, the illness must be treated as early as possible, otherwise the patient risks suicide. Dark thoughts are very common in people suffering from melancholic depression; diagnosis is the first step to preventing the worst.
Melancholic depression is generally treated in a hospital setting, most often with antidepressants. In more severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be used. It often resolves within a few weeks with the appropriate treatment; however, close monitoring for relapse is essential, as it is very common when the underlying causes of the depression are not addressed.
