 ...we may meet criteria for a clinical depression when we experience a cluster of symptoms that represents a significant change in our daily functioning.
Perhaps someone has told you they think you may be depressed or perhaps you have wondered for yourself. Maybe you have heard the term clinical depression but are not clear about what exactly it means. A clinical depression is a depression that meets a certain set of criteria. When a person has a mood disorder they can experience a range of symptoms. Some common examples include irritability, sadness, tearfulness, decreased spontaneity, memory difficulties, decreased attention and focus, feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness and excessive guilt. Additional symptoms may include indecisiveness, low frustration tolerance, loss of confidence, an increase in physical complaints, decreased attention to physical appearance, decreased interest in social activities, decreased libido and loss of enjoyment in sex and changes in appetite and sleep.
We all experience some of these symptoms at times in our lives. However, we may meet criteria for a clinical depression when we experience a cluster of symptoms that represents a significant change in our daily functioning. We may also meet criteria if we experience a group of symptoms that come on slowly over a long period of time, don't disrupt our daily functioning but have an insidious effect on our lives.
There are two broad categories of depression. The first type is labeled a major depressive disorder. Major depression is often described as being drawn into a black hole with seemingly no way out. This type of depression is often experienced as a paralyzing heaviness. Individuals who experience a distinct change in mood for at least a two-week period that causes serious distress and represents a significant change in functioning may meet criteria for this disorder. To be diagnosed with a major depression an individual must have at least five of the nine symptoms listed below and one of the symptoms must be either a depressed mood or loss of pleasure.
The nine symptoms are: depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, sleep disturbance, appetite changes, energy reduction/decreased motivation, concentration and memory difficulties, excessive guilt, physically slowing down or physical agitation and thoughts of suicide.
The second type of depression is a milder form called a dysthymic disorder. However, the label of mild depression can be misleading as this type of depression has a chronic course that can infect our vigor for life. To be diagnosed with a dysthymic disorder an individual must have three of the seven symptoms listed below and one of the symptoms must be a depressed mood.
The seven symptoms are: depressed mood, sleep disturbance, appetite changes, energy reduction, low self esteem, concentration difficulties and feelings of hopelessness.
The good news is that these symptoms are treatable and can be made better. If you believe that you may be experiencing a depression it's important to talk with an expert who can collaborate with you to explore the best treatment options for you. 
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