If I had a pigmented spot on my skin,
I would want to know whether it was
a freckle or a melanoma.
If I had swollen ankles, I would want
to know whether it was due to heart
failure or kidney problems.
If I had depression...

A diagnosis of depression is only half the answer.

Regrettably, many experts still hold the view that depression is one condition varying only in severity and then manage the condition first on the basis of their own professional training and background, and then according to a one size fits all approach.

The Black Dog Institute's Clinical Model recognises that there are different types of depression and that each expression of the illness responds to different forms of treatment including different classes of medication and psychological interventions.

Just as an accurate position is necessary if you are going to drill for oil in the seabed, or find a good spot for fishing, so too is it very important to identify the specific type of depression before implementing a treatment plan that works.