What do ppl mean by "clinical depression" as opposed to "major depression"?

Question

I just saw someone say "clinical depression" or "major depression," in giving answer, which is what got me wondering if it's supposed to be worse than major depression or less so.

I'm partly wondering because clinical depression isn't in the psychiatric lexicon. It is a popular term.

Answer 1

I guess I would consider them the same thing in some situations? I am sure someone will know for sure, but in my understanding clinical depression just simply means it has been clinically diagnosed. So you could have clinical depression but not have major depression (you could have a less severe depression), but if you have major depression I would assume it has been clinically diagnosed.  

Answer 2

I have been referred to as both in the past Mist. I believe clinical might mean that it isn't related to something specific... like grief or stress or loss of loved one etc. It's a depression that's chemical and 'no real reason' sorta thing. The d**n thing just happens! :( Just a guess.

Answer 3

It is the same thing, to make a diagnosis of major depression there must be a set of specific clinical symptoms hence the term.

It is very different from being sad or upset or miserable.

Treatment is different for each type of depression.