Types of Depression: Definitions and Terminology
There are several different types of depression. Often they are distinguished by
their prevalent features, duration and severity of symptoms. Most of these kinds
of depression are defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental
Disorders (DSM), an American Psychiatric Association publication which describes
the standard criteria for different types of psychiatric disorders.
The following three different kinds of depression are distinct depressive
disorders described in the DSM. A common criteria is that their symptoms either
cause 1) significant distress or 2) impair one’s functioning (e.g. work, school,
relationships). Also, these depressive symptoms are not caused by a medical
condition or substance (e.g. medication, drug).Major Depressive Disorder
(also known as Major Depression, Clinical Depression) – A major depressive
episode occurs with symptoms that last for most of the day, nearly every day for
at least two weeks. A symptom must either be 1) depressed mood or 2) a
noticeable decrease in interest or pleasure in all or most activities. At least
four (or more) additional symptoms are present:
- significant weight loss / weight gain or decrease / increase in appetite
- difficulty sleeping or increase in sleeping
- excessive movement or slowing down associated with mental tension
(observed by others)
- fatigue or loss of energy
- feeling worthless or excessive guilt
- difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
- repeatedly thinking about death or suicide, trying to attempt suicide or
having a specific plan to commit suicide
Dysthymic Disorder (or also referred to as Dysthymia) – Nearly
constant depressed mood for at least 2 years accompanied by at least two (or
more) of the following:
- decrease or increase in eating
- difficulty sleeping or increase in sleeping
- low energy or fatigue
- low self-esteem
- difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- feeling hopeless
Symptoms do not occur for more than two months at a time. Generally, this
type of depression is described as having persistent but less severe depressive
symptoms than Major Depression.
Manic Depression (now known as Bipolar Disorder) – This kind of
depression includes periods of mania and depression. Cycling between these two
states can be rapid or only mania can be present without any depressive
episodes. A manic episode consists of a persistent elevated or irritable mood
that is extreme, which lasts for at least one week. At least three (four if only
irritable mood) other features are also present:
- inflated self-esteem or self-importance
- decreased need for sleep
- more talkative than usual or compelled to keep talking
- experiencing racing thoughts or ideas
- easily distracted
- increase in goal-oriented activity (social, work, school, sexual) or
excessive movement
- excessive involvement in potentially risky pleasurable behavior (e.g.
over spending, careless sexual activity, unwise business investments)
Symptoms can be severe enough to warrant hospitalization to prevent harm to
self or others or include psychotic features (e.g. hallucinations, delusions).
Other Types of Depressive Categories
Treatment will differ depending on the type of depression based on its
severity and various symptoms. For example, the focus of therapy may vary or
different antidepressants may be prescribed
targeting certain symptoms.
Notes:
1. Source - Diagnostic and Statistics Manual of Mental
Disorders, 4th Edition.
Also see: [ depression help ] [
signs ] [
causes ]
DISCLAIMER
The depression information provided is for educational and informational
purposes only. This information should not replace proper evaluation and
diagnosis of depression by a mental health professional. Before taking any
action, please consult with a mental health professional. Please see
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