Consumer Health: Understanding atypical depression

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which makes this a good time to learn more about dealing with atypical depression.

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you feel, think and behave, and it can lead to emotional and physical problems.

For some people with depression, mood can brighten in response to positive events. This is called atypical depression, or depression with atypical features. Other key symptoms of atypical depression include increased appetite, sleeping too much, feeling that your arms or legs are heavy, and feeling rejected.

Despite its name, atypical depression is not uncommon or unusual. Learn more about this mental health disorder, including its risk factors, potential complications and treatment options.