Types of Depression

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), there are several types of depression, known as mood disorders. Most depressions are categorized broadly into two classifications, based on whether a manic episode has occurred. This classification delineates between major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, and bipolar disorder (BD), what used to be called manic depression.

Major depressive disorder, or clinical depression, occurs when an individual has one or more major depressive episodes. One event receives the diagnosis-"Major Depressive Disorder (single episode)"-while two or more episodes are reclassified as "Major Depressive Disorder (Recurrent)". Depressive disorders are frequently undetected.

Several subtypes of depressive disorder included: Atypical depression, melancholic depression, psychotic major depression, catatonic depression, seasonal affective disorder, dysthymia, depressive personality disorder, and post-partum depression.

Post-partum depression is the intense, sustained and occasionally debilitating depression that many women experience following childbirth. It is estimated that as many as 10 to 15 percent of all women experience some form of post-partum depression, which onsets within three months of delivery. Breastfeeding women must be aware of taking only certain antidepressants.