Depressive Disorder Bibliography 2 Depression T’Erica

Depresive Disorder Bibliography 2 DEPRESIVE DISORDER T’Erica Huff

Depressive disorder is experienced in both children and adolescents. It can be defined as a mood disorder or a mental health disorder that causes a persistent feeling of depressed mood, sadness, losing interest in activities, thus interfering with the daily functioning of a person’s everyday life. The depressive disorder has various causative agents such as social, biological, or psychological sources of distress.

The continuous sadness in a person, therefore, leads to multiple symptoms characterized by changes in behavior and physical activities and characteristics. It also affects someone’s thoughts bringing about suicidal thoughts. Usually, it is treated with either talk therapy, medication, or a combination of both. The scope of depressive disorder is vast therefore, I will look at why the depressive disorder is common in adolescents and why most do not get helped inadequate time and thus leading to unfortunate incidents. Adolescence is a period of self-discovery and changes from childhood to adulthood can be difficult.

During this period, a person is exposed to a lot of changes and might, therefore, be in distress. Also, during this period, an adolescent is trying to figure out where they fit into society. Therefore, as the adolescent is struggling to cope up with everything around them, they undergo a lot of stress and might, therefore, require help from others who are experienced. The problem is that not a lot of people pay significant attention to their adolescents. A parent might notice a queer behavior in his/her child but will ignore it, believing it is just a stage and it will pass.

Sometimes, adolescents also feel the pressure around them and would like to speak out, but after receiving a negative response, they decide to keep quiet. More so, an adolescent may be afraid or may feel it is of no significance to share their troubles because they may perceive it as being weak and therefore decide to act like everything is normal. These are some of the circumstances that make adolescents undergo depression on their own, leading to a depressive disorder that causes harm to them and is something that could be avoided. Therefore, in my presentation, I will expand on the causes and propose some of how the situation can be handled. I will also talk to some of the teenagers as well as parents who have been affected by the issue.

Paper For Above instruction

Depressive disorder, also known as depression or major depressive disorder (MDD), constitutes a significant mental health concern worldwide. It predominantly affects both children and adolescents, manifesting as a persistent low mood, diminished interest in enjoyable activities, and various physical and cognitive symptoms that impair daily functioning. Understanding the complexity of depression, especially during adolescence, is critical due to the unique developmental challenges and psychosocial factors characteristic of this life stage.

Introduction

Depressive disorder is a mood disorder marked by episodes of intense sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities that previously brought happiness. The prevalence of depression among adolescents has been rising alarmingly, with factors such as social pressures, biological changes, and psychological distress contributing to its development. Despite its widespread occurrence, many adolescents do not receive adequate help due to societal stigma, lack of awareness, or insufficient mental health resources.

Causes of Depression in Adolescents

The etiology of depression in adolescents is multifaceted, encompassing biological, psychological, and social factors. Biological contributors include genetic predispositions and neurochemical imbalances, particularly involving serotonin and norepinephrine pathways, which regulate mood (Belmaker & Agam, 2008). Psychologically, cognitive distortions and negative thought patterns can perpetuate feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness (Beck, 1967). Social factors such as peer pressure, family conflicts, bullying, and socio-economic hardships further exacerbate vulnerability (Hawton et al., 2005).

Adolescence is a crucial period marked by significant hormonal changes and brain development affecting emotional regulation. These biological and neurological changes can predispose adolescents to mood disorders. Additionally, environmental stressors like academic pressures and social media influence contribute to the risk of developing depression (Otte et al., 2016).

Impacts of Depression on Adolescents

The consequences of depression during adolescence are profound. Affected individuals may experience academic decline, social withdrawal, and impaired relationships with peers and family members. One of the most severe risks associated with depression is suicidal ideation and behavior, which necessitates urgent intervention (Angst et al., 1999). Depression also increases the likelihood of developing comorbid conditions such as anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and eating disorders (Bittner et al., 2004).

Neurological studies have shown that depression affects the limbic system and prefrontal cortex, regions involved in emotion regulation and decision-making (Belmaker & Agam, 2008). These neural alterations can persist, influencing cognitive processes and behavior well into adulthood.

Challenges in Addressing Adolescent Depression

One of the primary challenges lies in the underrecognition of depression by parents, teachers, and even peers. Often, adolescents internalize their struggles, perceiving vulnerability as a weakness and fearing stigma if they reveal their feelings (Lewinsohn et al., 1999). Consequently, many do not seek help or are not identified early, leading to worsening symptoms and increased risk of adverse outcomes.

Accessibility to mental health services remains limited in many regions, compounded by societal stigma against mental illness, which discourages open discussion and seeking help. Many teenagers feel hesitant to disclose their symptoms, fearing judgment or lack of confidentiality (Bittner et al., 2004).

Prevention and Intervention Strategies

Addressing adolescent depression requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses awareness, early detection, and accessible treatment. Psychoeducation targeted at parents, teachers, and adolescents can empower them to recognize early warning signs like persistent sadness, withdrawal from social activities, and irritability (Fava & Kendler, 2000). School-based mental health programs can facilitate timely intervention and reduce stigma (Lewinsohn et al., 1999).

Effective treatment modalities include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and pharmacotherapy when necessary (Belmaker & Agam, 2008). Combining therapy with family involvement enhances treatment adherence and outcomes. Moreover, peer support groups can provide validation and reduce feelings of isolation (Otte et al., 2016).

Furthermore, societal efforts to destigmatize mental illness and improve access to mental health services are vital in ensuring adolescents receive adequate care. Policy measures that integrate mental health into primary health services can greatly improve early identification and intervention (Fava & Kendler, 2000).

Conclusion

Depressive disorder in adolescents constitutes a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. Its impact extends beyond individual suffering to influence academic achievement, social development, and overall well-being. Early recognition and intervention, combined with societal awareness and destigmatization, are crucial in mitigating its effects. As mental health awareness continues to grow, ensuring that adolescents receive timely and appropriate care can significantly reduce the burden of depression and improve their quality of life.

References

• Belmaker, R. H., & Agam, G. (2008). Major depressive disorder. New England Journal of Medicine, 358(1), 55-68.
• Fava, M., & Kendler, K. S. (2000). Major depressive disorder. Neuron, 28(2), 221-236.
• Hawton, K., Saunders, K. E., & O'Connor, R. C. (2005). Self-harm and suicidal behaviour in adolescents. The Lancet, 373(9674), 237-249.
• Lewinsohn, P. M., Rohde, P., Klein, D. N., & Seeley, J. R. (1999). Natural course of adolescent major depressive disorder: I. Continuity into young adulthood. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 38(1), 56-63.
• Bittner, A., Goodwin, R. D., Wittchen, H. U., Beesdo, K., Höfler, M., & Lieb, R. (2004). What characteristics of primary anxiety disorders predict subsequent major depressive disorder? The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
• Otte, C., Gold, S. M., Penninx, B. W., Pariante, C. M., Etkin, A., Fava, M., & Schatzberg, A. F. (2016). Major depressive disorder. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 2(1), 16065.
• Beck, A. T. (1967). Depression: Clinical, experimental, and theoretical aspects. University of Pennsylvania Press.
• Hawton, K., et al. (2005). Self-harm and suicidal behaviour in adolescents. The Lancet, 373(9674), 237-249.
• Fava, M., & Kendler, K. S. (2000). Major depressive disorder. Neuron, 28(2), 221-236.
• Belmaker, R. H., & Agam, G. (2008). Major depressive disorder. New England Journal of Medicine, 358(1), 55-68.