Types of Depression

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Types of Depression

There are a variety of types of depression. These include major depression, which is the most intense and serious type of depression. Dysthymic disorder is a less severe type of depression that is not as disabling as major depression, but is long lasting and negatively affects effective functioning and feelings of well being. Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depressive disorder, involves cycling mood changes, from depression to mania, an extremely energetic and "up" state. Post-partum depression is a depression that occurs after childbirth.

Only a thorough evaluation by a qualified health care professional, such as a psychiatrist or nurse practitioner who specializes in mental health, can determine what is causing your particular symptoms and make a diagnosis of depression.

Depression: Types list

The list of types of Depression mentioned in various sources includes:

Postpartum depression - depression after childbirth
Dysthymia - a mild form of depression.
Seasonal Affective Disorder - a seasonal sunlight-related form of depression.
Panic disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Social phobia
Phobias
Specific phobias
Generalized anxiety disorder
Separation anxiety disorder
Acute stress disorder
Anxiety disorder due to medical condition
Substance-induced anxiety disorder
Anxiety disorder NOS

Curable Types of Depression:

Bulimia nervosa related
Anorexia nervosa related depression
Obsessive compulsive disorder related depression
Somatization disorder
SLE related depression
Obstructive sleep apnea related depression
Lyme disease related depression
Syphilis related depression
Borderline personality disorders

Rare Types of Depression:

Bulimia nervosa related depression
Anorexia nervosa related depression
Obsessive compulsive disorder
Somatization disorder
Multiple sclerosis
Parkinson's disease related depression
Alzheimer's disease related depression
SLE related depression
Obstructive sleep apnea related depression
Lyme disease related depression
Syphilis related depression
HIV encephalopathy
Borderline personality disorders
Major depression (clinical depression or major depressive disorder)
Manic depression (bipolar disorder)
Winter depression (seasonal affective disorder)
Postnatal depression
Anxiety depression
Atypical depression
Chronic depression
Double depression
Endogenous depression
Situational depression
Reactive depression
Agitated depression
Psychotic depression
Melancholic depression
Catatonic depression
Childhood depression
Adolescent depression
Holiday depression
Workplace depression
Unipolar depression
Cyclothymia
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Substance-induced mood disorder

Types discussion:

Two serious types of clinical depression are major depression and bipolar disorder.

Major Depression:
Major depression makes it almost impossible to carry on usual activities, sleep, eat, or enjoy life. Pleasure seems a thing of the past. This type of depression can occur once in a lifetime or, for many people, it can recur several times. People with a major depression need professional treatment.

Bipolar Disorder (Manic-Depressive Illness):
Another type of depression, bipolar disorder--or manic-depressive illness--leads to severe mood swings, from extreme "lows" to excessive "highs." These states of extreme elation and unbounded energy are called mania. This disorder usually starts when people are in their early twenties. Though unusual for this type of depression to start for the first time in later life, it requires medical treatment, whatever the person's age. (Source: excerpt from If You're Over 65 and Feeling Depressed Treatment Brings New Hope: NIMH)