There are many types of depression. Some are caused by chemical changes in the brain while others may be caused by events experienced in a person’s life. Whichever the type or nature of the depression, it is important to speak to a medical professional for a proper diagnosis. Different types of depression might be treated in different ways.

The major depressive disorder manifests in individuals by displaying near-constant feelings of depression and displaying its associated symptoms. It is typically defined by a lack of motivation and hopelessness and the behaviors associated with those characters. In extreme cases, thoughts of suicide may be evident. Persistent depressive disorder is a depression that lasts longer than two years.

Bipolar disorder is normally characterized by ongoing and unpredictable mood swings. Mood swings may include manic highs and extreme lows that mirror major depressive disorder. The seasonal affective disorder is a period, usually during the dark winter months, where major depressive disorder symptoms display. Postpartum depression occurs in women in the period following childbirth, some men also experience depression during this period

The premenstrual dysphoric disorder affects some women at the beginning of their period and displays depressive symptoms. Situational depression or stress response syndrome occurs when external life events are causing feelings of depression. Psychotic depression combines depressive symptoms with symptoms of psychosis including paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions.