Let's talk about depression—not just the image of someone stuck in bed, crying all day. I'm talking about what I call "Depression Plus." It's not an official term, just a way to describe depression that comes with extra layers like anxiety, anger, restlessness, and difficulty focusing. Think of it as depression with added challenges—mood swings, bursts of energy that might even feel productive at first but quickly spiral out.
"Depression Plus" isn't just about feeling sad. Sadness might not even play a role. Instead, it can feel like constant anxiety, as if your brain is stuck on an endless hamster wheel. For some, it shows up as sudden bursts of anger triggered by small things like how someone breathes or chews. Then there is the restlessness—you are completely exhausted but feel too wired to focus, stuck on details that do not matter. It is not typical depression. It is more complex and needs to be acknowledged and understood.
Is This Bipolar Disorder?
Not quite. "Depression Plus" shares some similarities with bipolar disorder, like mood swings, irritability, and bursts of energy. However, it does not fully align with a bipolar spectrum diagnosis. It falls into a gray area outside official definitions, but that does not make it less real or impactful.
While regular depression often feels heavy and unchanging, "Depression Plus" is more like an emotional rollercoaster. One moment, you're overwhelmed with anxiety; the next, you're snapping at someone for interrupting you. Then, you might endlessly scrolling through TikTok, trying to quiet the chaos in your mind.
The ADHD Connection
ADHD and "Depression Plus" often share many overlapping symptoms. Struggling to focus, feeling scattered, or easily irritated can be signs of either condition. "Depression Plus" isn't just about feeling sad; it is about dealing with a mix of intense and overwhelming emotions.
Why It Matters
Traditional definitions of depression do not always capture everyone's experiences, and if they don't fully describe what you are going through, you are not alone. "Depression Plus" often gets overlooked because it does not match the typical symptoms people expect. This can leave some people untreated or with treatments that miss the mark. For instance, if anxiety and irritability are your main challenges, a standard antidepressant might not be enough. You may need a treatment focusing on calming restlessness or stabilizing your mood.
Managing "Depression Plus"
Mood stabilizers can make a big difference.
Talk to your doctor about options like Lamictal, low-dose Lithium, or Abilify.
These medications work better for managing emotional ups and downs than traditional antidepressants like Zoloft, Lexapro, or Effexor.
Anxiety is often a significant factor and can worsen emotional struggles.
Tools such as mindfulness, therapy, or medications that calm the nervous system can be invaluable.
Poor sleep can make mood instability worse.
Tracking your emotional patterns with a mood journal or app can help pinpoint triggers or cycles of calm and turbulence.
Be patient and kind to yourself.
It's not your fault—your brain is dealing with a lot.
Why We Need to Talk About This
"Depression Plus" is not a term you'll find in textbooks—yet—but it is a real experience. I believe that many people living with untreated or partially treated depression, anxiety, or ADHD—around 3 out of 4—may be dealing with what I call "Depression Plus." These individuals often require reassessment and might benefit from a mood stabilizer to better address their full range of symptoms.
This term captures the emotional complexity that many face daily—living with overlapping struggles of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and even symptoms associated with the bipolar spectrum. By naming it, we create space for greater understanding, more precise treatments, and validation for those who feel overlooked.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by emotions, stuck in relentless anxiety, or like you don't fit within the label of "just depression," you're not alone. "Depression Plus" can be tricky, but it's manageable. Recognizing it is the first step toward finding balance and relief.
Let's keep this conversation going. Please share this with someone who might need it. Together, we can raise awareness about "Depression Plus" and help those navigating it.
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