What is the difference between minor and major depression?

To distinguish your condition as major depression, one of your symptoms must be either depressed mood or loss of interest; five or more of the following symptoms must be present for most of the day every day or nearly every day for at least two weeks:

• Depressed mood for most of the day
• Decreased pleasure in normal activities
• Difficulty sleeping or significantly increased need for sleep
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessnessLow energy level
• Difficulty making decisions or concentrating
• Suicidal thoughts

Minor depression is similar to major depression, except that you experience fewer than five of the listed symptoms.