Sometimes I get depressed for about a week, give or take a few days. My T is saying dysthmia, but I don't believe that's what it is. I've read up on dsythmia, how its a chronic but less severe form of depression. Now, I get the shorter periods, but the severity of it seems very real. My T asked if I ever got suicidal during these times and I said no - because I never seriously consider it. I think about how much more I can take before I crack, or if this is how the rest of my life is going to be with the ups and downs. I think ABOUT suicide, but not about actually commiting it because I know it would ruin my family and friends, and I know what it's like to get close to losing someone that way.

Basically, I'm just wondering what this is? I've heard chemical imbalance, or bipolar, but I don't think I'm bipolar. I don't get manic. These short but intense depressions seem much more than just a "blue, down, blah" feeling that is described in someone with dsythmia. They are real, debilitating, and I often find myself hopeless and scared at what will become of me. I've been searching for answers everywhere with this - but I just can't find it on the internet. Since it's not 2 weeks or longer, it isn't considered major depressive disorder. These usually come anywhere from once a month, to a few times a month, or it can skip months. It doesn't seem related to any specific stressors.

Anyone have any insight? I know I should tell my T, and I plan on it (you know, one day...) but until then I'd like to see if anyone else has any ideas to what might be going on.

Thanks.