Q I heard there are different types of depression. Are seasonal depression and postpartum depression treated differently?
A Besides major depressive disorder, there are subtypes such as seasonal (from reduced winter sunlight), postpartum (from sudden hormonal changes) and dysthymia (chronic mild depression). Because their causes differ, treatment approaches differ too, but SSRI-class medication and psychotherapy are commonly used together.
Detailed Answer
Characteristics of the main subtypes: Seasonal depression occurs in winter when reduced sunlight leads to excess melatonin and decreased serotonin. Light therapy is effective. Postpartum depression is caused by the sharp drop in estrogen and progesterone after childbirth, and prompt treatment is important. Dysthymia is low-grade depression that persists for two years or longer.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
For the seasonal type, we focus on reinforcing yang qi (yanggi) and sunlight exposure; for postpartum depression, on restoring qi and blood (tonifying qi and blood); and for chronic depression, on smoothing the liver qi and strengthening spleen function. We provide differentiated treatment with prescriptions matched to the subtype and constitution.
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