Difference Between Depression and Clinical Depression

Key Difference – Depression vs Clinical Depression
 

Depression and Clinical depression refer to two terms used in psychology between which some differences can be discerned. First let us have a look at the term Depression. Depression in psychological terms is a psychological condition that requires medical treatment. Depression should not be confused with sadness or hopelessness as it goes much deeper that either of these emotions. Depression is an umbrella term used to refer to different types of depression. On the other hand, Clinical depression refers to a specific type of depression also known as major depressive disorder. This is the key difference between the two words. This article attempts to clarify the difference between depression and clinical depression

What is Depression?

A person can feel depressed for a short period or longer period of time. When a person feels depressed for a shorter period of time after a traumatic or painful event such as a death of a close friend of family member, it is considered as a natural situation. But if this condition prevails for a longer period of time, it is believed that he or she require medical treatment.

Depression has many different types. Here is a list of the types of depression.

• Major depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Dysthymia
• Persistent Depressive Disorder
• Psychotic depression
• Situational depression
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Postpartum depression

As you can see, there is a variety of depressive disorders. Some of the common symptoms of depression are feelings of sadness and emptiness, feelings of hopelessness, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, loss of interest in activities, lack of energy, the desire to be alone, inability to sleep or excessive sleep, inability to eat or overeating and suicidal thoughts. These symptoms differ from individual to individual and also based on the age of the person as well. It is also necessary to highlight that both children and adults can be diagnosed with depression. Depression can be treated using both therapy and medication.

What is Clinical Depression?

Clinical depression is also known as major depressive disorder. This is regarded as one of the commonest depressive disorders. The main obstacle that a person with clinical depression faces is the inability to go one with his daily routine. The person has difficulty in working, sleeping, eating and enjoying his life. The person usually feels depressed most of the time of the day, and this occurs almost every day. Some of the common symptoms that can be diagnosed are suicidal thoughts, weight gain or weight loss, lack of energy, feelings worthless, difficulty in concentrating and difficulty to sleep.

Psychologists advise that if at least five of the symptoms are visible for a period of two weeks or more the individual requires medical attention.

What is the Difference Between Depression and Clinical Depression?

Definitions of Depression and Clinical Depression:

Depression: Depression is an umbrella termed used to refer to a psychological condition that requires medical treatment.

Clinical Depression: Clinical depression refers to a specific type of depression also known as major depressive disorder.

Characteristics of Depression and Clinical Depression:

Term:

Depression: Depression is an umbrella term that captures different types of depression.

Clinical Depression: Clinical depression is a specific type of depression.

Symptoms:

Depression: Depression has many symptoms that differ from one another based on the type of depression.

Clinical Depression: Some of the symptoms that can be diagnosed are suicidal thoughts, weight gain or weight loss, lack of energy, feelings worthless, difficulty in concentrating and difficulty with sleeping.