Depression Diagnosis And Treatment Applied To PS

Depression Diagnostic And Treatmentsthe Tittle Applied To Psychology A

Depression diagnostic and treatments The tittle applied to psychology and your field of study. When that word or terminology was coined? Why the name of the disorder / concept or definition.Criteria to be followed in order to be diagnosed with this specific disorder according to the DSM-5 Edition.HistoryScholars or theorist related to that topicCausesSymptomsDifferent typesPreventionsTreatment plans for short-term goals and long-term goalsTips or suggestions on how to overcome the disorderParenting skills to help the individualsHow it apply to your fieldControversies around that topic University -Class - and section Instructor, with credentialsTerm -Your name Next page - Abstract page (1) Is a paragraph ( at least 8 lines) - Content pages at least (5) - Conclusion page (1) In your own words, what you found after doing the literature research and your personal opinions.

IT IS YOUR CONCLUSION - - Reference page (1). Make sure is written using the name of the journals, books or any proper reference. Minimum total number of pages 9. In addition, it must be typed using APA style, and Times New Roman, and font 12. 1.5 space. - Research findings from a Database to support your information. - It includes at least three (3) academic/scholarly journals (Primary Sources) from journals in Psychology.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Depression, clinically known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide. Its recognition as a distinct psychological disorder has evolved significantly over time. The term "depression" has been used in various contexts for centuries, but it was formally characterized as a clinical disorder with specific diagnostic criteria in the 20th century. Understanding the historical development, causes, symptoms, and treatment options for depression is essential for psychologists and mental health professionals to effectively diagnose and manage this condition. This paper explores depression's origins, diagnostic criteria according to DSM-5, related theories, and current treatment strategies, emphasizing their relevance to psychology as a discipline.

Historical Context and Theories

The concept of depression has roots in ancient medical theories; however, it was in the 19th century that depression became distinguished as a mental health disorder. Emil Kraepelin, a pioneer in psychiatric classification, differentiated depression from other mood disturbances, laying the groundwork for modern diagnostic systems. The term "melancholia" was used historically to describe a melancholic state akin to depression, but it was replaced with "depression" in psychiatric terminologies in the early 1900s. The development of psychoanalytic theories by Freud and later behavioral and cognitive models have contributed to understanding depression's complex etiology.

Causes and Symptoms

Depression arises from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Evidence suggests that imbalance in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine plays a vital role. Environmental stressors, including trauma or loss, can trigger depressive episodes, particularly in individuals with genetic predisposition. Symptoms typically include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep, fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and difficulty concentrating. The DSM-5 emphasizes the presence of at least five symptoms during a two-week period to diagnose depression.

Types and Prevention

Depression manifests in various forms, including Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (dysthymia), bipolar depression, and postpartum depression. Prevention strategies include promoting mental health awareness, early intervention, stress management, maintaining social connections, and lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise and proper sleep hygiene. Public education campaigns and mindfulness practices also serve as preventive tools.

Treatment Plans and Overcoming Strategies

Effective treatment involves pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed medications. Psychotherapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy have shown efficacy. Short-term goals focus on symptom relief, while long-term objectives aim to enhance resilience and prevent recurrence. Tips for managing depression include establishing routines, seeking social support, practicing mindfulness, and adhering to prescribed treatments. Parenting skills can be tailored to support children or adolescents with depression by fostering open communication, emotional regulation, and consistent routines.

Application to Psychology and Controversies

Understanding depression is fundamental to clinical and counseling psychology, informing assessment, diagnosis, and intervention techniques. Debates persist regarding the biological versus psychological etiology of depression, the effectiveness of medication versus psychotherapy, and cultural considerations in diagnosis. Some scholars argue that current diagnostic criteria may pathologize normal emotional responses, leading to overdiagnosis. Others emphasize a biopsychosocial approach, integrating biological, psychological, and social factors for a comprehensive understanding.

Conclusion

After reviewing the extensive literature on depression, it is evident that the disorder is multifaceted, involving complex biological, psychological, and social components. The evolution of its diagnosis and treatment reflects ongoing advancements in psychological sciences. Personally, I believe that future research should focus on personalized approaches that consider individual differences in genetics, environment, and psychological resilience. Addressing depression effectively requires a multidisciplinary strategy, integrating biological treatments with psychotherapy and social support systems. As a psychology student, understanding these facets enhances my capacity to contribute meaningfully to mental health advocacy and intervention.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
• Beck, A. T. (1967). Depression: Clinical, experimental, and theoretical aspects. Harper & Row.
• Kessler, R. C., Chiu, W. T., Demler, O., & Walters, E. E. (2005). Prevalence, severity, and comorbidity of 12-month DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(6), 617–627.
• Millan, M. J., et al. (2013). The neurobiology of treatment-resistant depression: Implications for new therapies. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 14(1), 58-70.
• Holen, D., & Agam, Y. (2014). Genetic insights into depression. Molecular Psychiatry, 19(8), 786–792.
• Clark, D. M., & Wells, A. (1995). A cognitive model of social phobia. In R. G. Heimberg, M. R. Liebowitz, D. A. Hope, & F. R. Schneier (Eds.), Social Phobia: Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment. Guilford Press.
• Cuijpers, P., et al. (2020). The efficacy of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in depressive disorders. Psychological Medicine, 50(2), 200–211.
• World Health Organization. (2020). Depression. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
• Harvard Medical School. (2016). Treating depression: Medication or therapy? Harvard Health Publishing.