[header] How to identify different types of depression [title] Understand how depression is diagnosed. [step] Depression can sometimes be a normal reaction to negative life experiences, which passes over time. However, sometimes it is a more serious and long-lasting problem which requires diagnosis and treatment. 
[substeps] At its mildest, depression is considered to be an emotional disorder that can be treated with therapy and medication. At its worst, depression is considered a mental illness, which may require hospitalization.