This common type of depression occurs as an extension of normal upset feelings following a loss of some kind. When these feelings are prolonged or become more severe, the person becomes depressed. People can also be diagnosed with this depression if their symptoms cannot be categorized into any other specific form of depressive disorder.

Symptoms of reactive depression are similar to those of other types of depressive disorders. They include:

• Feeling low, anxious, often angry and irritable
• Difficulty getting to sleep, or finds refuge in sleep
• Often overeats or diminished appetite
• Reduced concentration and attention
• Reduced self esteem and self confidence
• Ideas of guilt and unworthiness
• Bleak and pessimistic views of the future
• Ideas or acts of self-harm or suicide

The experience of reactive depression is distressing for the person involved, resulting in many becoming preoccupied with suicidal thoughts, medical overdoses or other self-destructive acts.

During normal life, depressive reactions are normal mood responses. However, when it impairs or interrupts a person’s ability to lead a normal life, it becomes classed as reactive depression. The onset of a depressive illness is most often connected to changes in brain chemicals.

Treatment is similar to that of other depressive disorders, sometimes using cognitive psychotherapy to reduce depressive symptoms and the problems that cause mood shifts. Interpersonal psychotherapy can help the person to resolve any relationship problems that are causing the depression. In most cases, medications aren’t necessary but the patient may be assessed as to their need if the symptoms are severe.

Being able to anticipate which experiences evoke depressive reactions for each individual may offer some help to protect against the full impact of the feelings. Knowing when the stress of a particular situation fades, the depression will diminish often helps as well. Exercise and relaxation techniques can also help many people diagnosed with this depressive disorder.