Minor Depression

Sometimes depression is not quite as severe as in a Major Depressive Episode (see the description under Major Depression for a full description).

You might feel less interested in life, have difficulty sleeping, be preoccupied by feelings of loss or guilt, and feel significantly low, sad, or "blank."

This state is not considered a formal diagnosis, and isn't really classified as a disorder. Nevertheless, some professionals refer to this problem as "minor depression" to distinguish it from Major Depression.

Even though it is not considered a disorder, it may be useful to recognize Minor Depression when it happens. Like other mood problems, Minor Depression sometimes signals that you need to do something about some aspect of your life (stop working so hard, start exercising, take better care of yourself).

There isn't much research on minor depression, but it appears likely that many or most people experience it at some point in their lives.

Indeed, we might even consider minor depression to be a normal part of life - not something to be ignored, but not something requiring urgent professional care.

Minor depression may be a signal for you to adjust your life or lifestyle and take better care of yourself.

If Minor Depression goes on and on without getting better, it is a good idea to seek help for it. It may develop into a Major Depression, or simply last long enough to become Dysthymia.

Note: Information on these pages is provided for educational purposes only. It should not be taken as a substitute for care from a qualified healthcare provider.