Types of Depression 2

Depressive Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

In some cases, patients may have a disorder that is characterized by depressive symptoms but does not fit into the category of major depression, dysthymia, or another mood disorder. Some examples of depressive disorder not otherwise specified include:

Minor Depressive Disorder

Sometimes also referred to as "minor depression," minor depressive disorder is marked by at least two depressive symptoms that last over two weeks long.

Recurrent Brief Depression

This classification of depression indicates symptoms that last from two days to two weeks, occurring at least once a month for twelve months. It is a milder form of depression that is usually treated with therapy.

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Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood

Occasionally, some single event or stressor can cause a psychological response so intense that it results in a mood low enough that it can be considered a type of depression. This condition is referred to as adjustment disorder with depressed mood. Usually, this condition is temporary.

Mood Disorders Causing Depression Symptoms

There are a number of mood disorders that cause depression symptoms, but are not depression. It is essential to recognize that these disorders are not depression, because treatment for these other mood disorders may be very different than treatment for depression. Mood disorders causing depression symptoms include:

Bipolar Disorder or Manic Depression

Bipolar disorder is characterized by intense mood swings that range from deep depression to intense euphoria. People may experience shifts in mood a few times a year or several times a day. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition that can be managed through medication and therapy.
Learn more about bipolar disorder.

Cyclothymia or Cyclothymic Disorder 

Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolar disorder in which individuals suffer mood swings that range from moderate depression to euphoria. The mood swings are less severe than with bipolar disorder, and people with cyclothymia tend to stay grounded in reality. Cyclothymia is a long-term condition that may require lifelong treatment through medication and therapy.
Learn more about cyclothymia.

Psychotic Depression

Severe depression can be accompanied by psychotic symptoms such as delusions or hallucinations. The content of the psychotic delusions tend to be consistent with feelings of depression; for example, someone suffering from psychotic depression may hear voices telling them that they are worthless and don't deserve to live.