For around 21 million Americans, depression is a chronic condition that persists in part because of their microbiome (food choices change brain neurotransmitters' messaging), genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, a chronic medical condition, chronic pain, social isolation, or even medications.

And it's associated with more than just the blues. It also impacts heart health and the risk for Type 2 diabetes.

But according to a new study, it turns out that the shape of your depression changes the shape your heart and metabolism are in.

Researchers followed about 6,500 middle-age people for almost seven years and found that those with severe depression were at the highest risk for developing both Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Those who were categorized as melancholy and were early risers — with a worse mood in the mornings, decreased appetite, weight loss, and either restlessness or slowed speech and movements — were at the greatest risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Those whose depression caused increased sleepiness and appetite, weight gain, low energy, and very sedentary behavior were more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.

There was little crossover — each form of depression had its own cardio and/or metabolic risk.

If you suffer from chronic depression, discuss your symptoms with a lifestyle coach (food and friend choices and exercise are key to recovery) and your doctor so you can reverse your cardiovascular and/or diabetes risk, and lift your depression.