Feelings of depression are synonymous with feeling sad, blue, down in the dumps, unhappy, and miserable. Depression is a term that people commonly use to refer to states involving sadness, dejection, lack of self-esteem, and lack of energy. In this overview, several types of depression are identified: *Depressed mood: An emotional state dominated by feelings of sadness, gloominess, or emptiness, which may be associated with lack of energy. This mood state may be a temporary response to an unhappy or stressful event, or it may be persistent. *Chronic low-grade depression, also known as dysthymia: Depressed mood is present most of the time for a period of two years, and is accompanied by changes in energy, appetite, or sleep, as well as low self-esteem and feelings of hopelessness. These symptoms cause distress and difficulty in functioning, but are not as severe as in major depression (see dysthymia for further information). People who suffer from dysthymia are at increased risk for episodes of major depression. This produces a situation in which mild depression is present most of the time, with occasional periods of more severe depressive symptoms. This is commonly called "double depression." *Major depression: Severe, persistent depressed mood and loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities, accompanied by decreased energy, changes in sleep and appetite, and feelings of guilt or hopelessness. These symptoms must be present for at least two weeks, cause significant distress, and be severe enough to interfere with functioning. If the depression is very severe, it may be accompanied by psychotic symptoms or by suicidal thoughts or behaviors (see major depression for more information). See also major depression ; depression in the elderly and adolescent depression .

Alternative Names

Blues; Dejection; Discouragement; Gloom; Mood changes; Sadness