Understanding Mental Illness vs. Depression: Key Differences & Symptoms

Mental illness is a broad term that includes many types of emotional and behavioral disorders including anxiety, schizophrenia and many types of depressive disorders.

Depression Defined

• The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association defines depression as a mood disorder. The mood disorders include several types of depression and Bipolar Disorders. Other classes of mental illness include Schizophrenia and Anxiety Disorders.

Symptoms

• Depression is characterized by sadness and decreased interest in daily activities. Other symptoms can include changes in weight, sleep patterns and difficulty in concentration or other cognitive disturbances.

Differential Diagnosis

• If an individual is experiencing increased energy and high moods known as mania, or psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, Depression is ruled out as an diagnosis, and another mental illness is considered.

Types of Treatment

• Successful treatment for depression starts with a thorough assessment by a mental health professional. Currently, psychotherapy and antidepressant medication are the most accepted forms of treatment for depression.

Getting Help

• Depression is a serious disorder that can affect daily functioning. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, start by consulting your primary care physician or by contacting your local mental health agency. You can learn more about treatment for depression at the National Alliance on Mental Illness website, NAMI.org.