What Is Normal Depression?

Normal depression also is called reactive depression or an adjustment disorder with depressed mood. This type of depression is something almost everyone will have to deal with at some point in life.

Cause

• Reactive depression is caused by life-changing events such as the loss of a job or the death of a loved one. Normal depression occurs when there is an identifiable trigger for the depression.

Time Frame

• Normal depression usually affects a person for as long as six months after the trigger. Less-serious triggers, such as a job loss, usually will affect the person for less time.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosing normal depression usually is done by reviewing the history and time line of the symptoms present. A psychological consultation or talk session might be done to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

• Generally, there isn't any treatment needed for normal depression; however, talk therapy or group sessions might help the patient to learn ways to cope with negative emotions.

Warning

• There is the possibility of a person with normal depression having suicidal or homicidal thoughts, which require emergency mental health treatment.