Melancholia

What is melancholia?

The word ‘melancholia’ has been used since the time of the ancient Greeks to describe feeling intensely sad and hopeless. Melancholic depression, also known as ‘major depression with melancholic features’, is usually a severe illness. It makes people lose interest in almost all activities and has other distinct physical symptoms.

What are the symptoms of melancholia?

The symptoms of melancholia are similar to the general symptoms of depression but are usually more severe. Most people with melancholia slow right down. Their movements, thoughts and speech can be very slow. Less commonly, people with melancholia can experience agitation and restlessness.

People with melancholia might also:

• feel slow and have a flat mood
• show very little emotional expression or response
• lose their appetite and lose weight
• sleep badly and wake early in the morning
• have trouble concentrating and remembering things
• have strong feelings of hopelessness or guilt
• think about suicide

Symptoms are usually worse in the morning.

How will I be diagnosed with melancholia?

The first step to get help for any mental health problem is to see your doctor or a mental health professional. This includes depression with melancholic features. Your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist for a more in-depth assessment and treatment plan.

How will I be treated for melancholia?

The treatment of depression, including melancholic depression, may involve antidepressant medicines or psychotherapy. A mental health treatment plan can help with the cost of psychotherapy.

Physical treatments such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are sometimes recommended if you have severe symptoms or if other treatments for depression have failed.