10 Types of Depression: Symptoms, Causes & When to Seek Help
Discover how each condition manifests so you can recognize red flags and find support.
Depression is much more than persistent sadness. It is a complex mental health condition—also called a mood disorder—with a wide range of symptoms and forms. According to mental health professionals, depression can affect how you think, feel, behave, and even your physical health. Understanding the different types of depression is key to recognizing the signs in yourself and others, and to finding the right treatment.
This guide covers the main types of depression seen by clinicians, their symptoms, unique features, and expert advice on when to seek professional support.
General Symptoms of Depression
The various depression types share common symptoms, which may appear in different combinations and intensities. Common signs include:
- Feeling overwhelmingly sad, empty, or hopeless
- Losing interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Significant changes in appetite or weight
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Fatigue or loss of energy most days
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Feeling worthless or excessively guilty
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Depression exists on a spectrum—symptoms can range from mild to severe, and not everyone experiences all possible symptoms. If you or someone you know feels persistently down or is struggling in daily life, seeking help from a mental health professional is crucial.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Major Depressive Disorder—also known as clinical depression—is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of depression. It is characterized by persistent, overwhelming sadness or loss of interest in nearly all activities, lasting most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.
- Low mood or irritability
- Anxiety and agitation
- Slowed movements or thoughts
- Unexplained physical pain, such as headaches or stomach aches
- Difficulty performing work, school, or daily tasks
Without treatment, major depression can linger for months or become recurrent, but therapy and medications are effective for many people.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)—formerly known as dysthymia—is a chronic form of depression that lasts for two years or longer. Symptoms are generally less severe than major depressions but can be continuously present, leading to persistent low mood.
- Chronic feelings of sadness or emptiness
- Tiredness and low energy almost daily
- Hopelessness, pessimism, or feeling like a “downer”
- Negative self-judgment and guilt over past events
- Avoiding social situations and gatherings
- Episodes of major depression on top of the chronic symptoms (double depression)
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This form of depression may go unrecognized due to its subtle, long-lasting nature. Treatment focuses on therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication.
Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Postpartum Depression is a unique type of depression that affects parents, most commonly mothers, after childbirth. Unlike the “baby blues,” which usually subside quickly after delivery, PPD lasts much longer—weeks to months—and can be severe.
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Intense sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness
- Feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy as a parent
- Panic attacks or extreme mood swings
- Thoughts of self-harm or of harming the child (requires immediate help)
The exact cause is unclear, but hormonal changes, lack of sleep, and stress play significant roles. PPD is treatable, and support is essential for both the parent and child’s well-being.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder was previously called manic-depressive illness. People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression that resemble major depression, alternating with periods of mania or hypomania—unusually elevated or irritable mood.
- Episodes of extremely low mood (depression), sometimes requiring hospitalization
- Mania characterized by elevated energy, racing thoughts, and impulsive behavior
- Risk-taking activities (spending, reckless driving, risky sexual behavior)
- Lethargy, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts during lows
There are several subtypes of bipolar disorder, with Bipolar I including severe manic episodes and Bipolar II involving less severe hypomania. Treatment usually involves mood stabilizing medications and therapy.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression linked to changes in seasons, most commonly appearing during the fall and winter months when daylight hours decrease.
- Daytime fatigue or excessive sleeping
- Increased appetite, especially for carbs
- Difficulty concentrating and brain fog
- Low energy and a sense of hopelessness
- Heightened sensitivity to social rejection
- Reduced sex drive
Treatment often includes light therapy, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy or antidepressants for moderate to severe cases.
Major Depression with Psychotic Features
This serious subtype of depression is characterized by severe depressive symptoms accompanied by psychosis—hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real) or delusions (fixed, false beliefs).
- Hearing voices that criticize or threaten
- Seeing people or objects that aren’t there
- Holding beliefs that are not based in reality (such as feeling persecuted or convinced you are hopelessly ill)
- Social withdrawal and inability to perform daily activities
Psychotic features require immediate medical attention. Treatment may involve a combination of antidepressants and antipsychotic medication.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affecting 3%-8% of people who menstruate. Symptoms emerge a week or two before menstruation and can severely impact daily life.
- Extreme sadness or irritability
- Intense mood swings and anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally out of control
- Physical symptoms like fatigue or muscle aches
Symptoms subside after menstruation begins. PMDD is believed to be related to hormonal shifts and is often treated with antidepressants, hormonal therapy, or lifestyle modifications.
Situational Depression (Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood)
Situational Depression occurs in response to a significant life change or stressful event, such as the death of a loved one, job loss, divorce, or other serious setbacks. Unlike other depression types, its cause is linked to a specific situation and symptoms typically improve as circumstances change.
- Prolonged worrying and nervousness after an event
- Frequent crying spells
- Difficulty making decisions
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Symptoms appearing within three months of the stressful event
While responses to stressful events are normal, persistent symptoms that significantly interfere with daily functioning may require professional support, such as counseling or grief therapy.
Atypical Depression
Atypical Depression displays common features of depression but with a distinct pattern: mood briefly improves when positive things happen. This form may also include unusual physical sensations.
- Sensitivity to rejection in relationships
- Feeling heavy or weighed down in arms or legs
- Sleeping and eating more than usual
- Temporary mood improvement after good news or positive events
Atypical depression often responds to a different set of antidepressant medications, making accurate diagnosis important.
Other Types of Depression
There are additional subtypes and special cases, including depression related to chronic medical conditions, substance use, and childhood or teenage depression. Each may have unique treatment needs and should be assessed by professionals.
Who Is at Risk for Depression?
Depression can affect anyone—children, teens, adults, and seniors. Some factors increase risk, including:
- Family history of depression or mood disorders
- Major life changes or trauma
- Hormonal shifts (e.g., postpartum, menopause)
- Chronic illness or pain
- Substance abuse
- Social isolation or lack of support
Women are statistically more likely to experience depression, and reproductive hormone changes play a role in certain subtypes (such as PPD and PMDD).
When to Seek Help for Depression
Occasional sadness and seasonal blues are normal. However, consider seeking help from a mental health provider if you:
- Experience mood changes that last two weeks or longer
- Notice that symptoms are interfering with work, school, relationships, or self-care
- Have thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm
- Cannot function in day-to-day life
Remember: Depression is treatable. Early intervention leads to better outcomes. If you are concerned, talk to your primary care physician or reach out to a professional counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist.
Depression Types Comparison Table
| Type of Depression | Key Features | Duration | Notable Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major Depressive Disorder | Severe, persistent sadness or loss of interest | 2+ weeks | Low energy, changes in sleep/appetite, guilt, suicidal thoughts |
| Persistent Depressive Disorder | Chronic low mood | 2+ years | Tiredness, negative outlook, low self-esteem |
| Postpartum Depression | After childbirth | Weeks to months | Bonding issues, anxiety, feelings of failure |
| Bipolar Disorder | Alternating depressive & manic episodes | Varies by cycle | Mania, risk-taking, lethargy, suicidal thoughts |
| Seasonal Affective Disorder | Depression triggered by seasonal changes | Usually fall/winter | Daytime sleepiness, brain fog, hopelessness |
| Major Depression with Psychotic Features | Severe depression with hallucinations/delusions | Until treated | Hallucinations, delusions, social withdrawal |
| Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder | Severe depression pre-menstruation | Week or two before period | Irritability, mood swings, anxiety |
| Situational Depression | Following a major stressor | Up to 6 months after event | Crying spells, trouble concentrating, sadness |
| Atypical Depression | Mood lifts with positive events | Ongoing unless treated | Heavy limbs, social sensitivity, oversleeping |
FAQ: Depression Types
What distinguishes clinical depression from everyday sadness?
Clinical depression, or major depressive disorder, involves persistent, intense symptoms most days for at least two weeks and severely impacts functioning. Occasional sadness from life events is normal, but clinical depression requires professional intervention.
How are postpartum depression and ‘baby blues’ different?
While up to 80% of new mothers experience “baby blues” (mood swings, irritability, crying spells), these feelings typically resolve within a week or two. Postpartum depression lingers for weeks or months, is much more severe, and often requires treatment.
Can depression return after treatment?
Yes, depression can recur. Ongoing mental health support, therapy, and regular check-ins with a healthcare provider help lower the risk of relapse.
Do men experience depression differently than women?
Both men and women can experience all types of depression, though men may display more irritability, anger, or risk-taking behaviors. Women are more prone to depression tied to hormonal changes, like postpartum depression or PMDD.
What should I do if I suspect a friend is depressed?
Encourage open conversation, share your concern without judgment, and suggest seeing a healthcare professional. Offer to help with daily tasks or appointments. In emergencies, seek immediate assistance if your friend is at risk for self-harm or suicide.
Is depression curable?
Many people recover fully from depression with the right treatment, but for some, it can be a long-term condition. Management and support make recovery possible and reduce symptom impact.
Mental Health Resources
Remember, you are not alone. Support and help are available:
- Contact a licensed mental health provider, therapist, or your primary care physician
- Call national helplines, such as the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988 in the U.S.)
- Seek out local or online support groups
- Practice self-care and reach out to trusted friends or family
Early action makes a real difference in outcomes and recovery.
References
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/wellness/a41248198/types-of-depression/
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/six-common-depression-types
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9290-depression
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/mental-health/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8610877/
- https://nyulangone.org/news/good-housekeeping-it-panic-attack-or-anxiety-attack-experts-explain
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/meaningfull/202206/prevention-and-good-housekeeping-say-bye-bmi
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Housekeeping
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