What Are the Causes of Atypical Depression?
Despite its name, atypical depression is actually quite common, especially in women. It is characterized by excessive weight gain and an increased desire to sleep for long periods of time. The patient suffering from atypical depression is overly sensitive to criticism and rejection. He or she may feel lethargic and have a marked decrease in energy. Atypical depression differs from major depression in that the patient’s mood may temporarily lift under certain circumstances. It has been speculated that atypical depression may be caused by specific incidents, or genetic or environmental factors.