In my last blog I shared some staggering statistics concerning depression and answered the question of why people who may be depressed choose not to seek help.  In this blog I would like to answer some questions related to the definitions of depression.

• What is Clinical Depression?

     Clinical Depression (also known as major depression, major depressive disorder, and unipolar depression) is classified as a mood disorder by the DSM-IV-TR (a clinical reference manual for mental disorders).  This is an abbreviated definition of a Major Depressive Episode from the DSM-IV-TR: At least 5 of symptoms from the list below must have been met for at least a two week period and one of the symptoms must have been either 1) depressed mood or 2) loss of interest in pleasure. 
1) Depressed mood the majority of the time.
2) Loss of interest in pleasure.
3) Significant weight loss or weight gain.
4) Significant increase or decrease in sleep.
5) Psychomotor agitation or retardation.
6) Fatigue.
7) Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
8) Diminished ability to think or concentrate.
9) Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
     The symptoms must cause significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.  The presence of two or more Major Depressive Episodes would constitute Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent (long term depression). 

• What is the difference between Clinical Depression and Situational Depression?

     Situational depression is more commonly known as sadness related to an unfortunate  event or situation that may occur in everyday life.  Situational depression is normally temporary or short term and has little to no interference with one's normal life and daily functioning.  However, situational depression can lead to a more severe case of clinical depression if it is not treated or dealt with in a healthy and timely manner. 
     Clinical depression is characterized by overwhelming feelings of loss, hopelessness, helplessness and despair that is more long term (at least 2 weeks or more) and interferes with one's normal life and everyday functioning.  Pyschological treatment is strongly recommended for clinical depression.  Pyschiatric treatment in the form of psychotropic drugs may be needed in some cases.
     In my next blog I will be answering questions related to the causes of depression.  Until then, enjoy the summer months while they still last!
Sincerely,

Nathan M. Comerford, MA, LLPC, NCC

• If you or someone you know needs to speak to someone regarding relationship issues, emotional difficulties or mental health problems, help is a phone call away.  Schedule an appointment today!
  Just call (248) 932-7799 to set up an appointment with
  Nathan Comerford, MA LLPC NCC.
      
  Visit www.thoughtperspectives.com for more information on counseling and psychotherapy!
  
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• This is a question and answer blog where Nathan answers questions concerning mental health topics.
•  If you have a question, you can send it to: questions@thoughtperspectives.com to have it answered by: Nathan Comerford, MA, LLPC, NCC.

Nathan M. Comerford is a psychotherapist in Farmington Hills, MI who has been helping people with their relationship issues, emotional difficulties and mental health problems for the past 8 years. 

Thought Perspectives Counseling
31275 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 120
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Phone: (248) 932-7799
www.thoughtperspectives.com>