Read The Articles Listed Below And Then Write A 1-2 Page Pap

Read The Articles Listed Below And Then Write A 1 2 Page Paper In APA

Read the articles listed below and then write a 1-2 page paper in APA format, using proper spelling/grammar, address the following: Imagine your 19 year old cousin has recently gone through many changes in his life and you suspect he is suffering from major depression. What would you tell your cousin about this disease? How would you help him find the best treatment possible? What type(s) of therapy would you recommend? How would a psychologist determine his or her behavior to be normal or abnormal? Feel free to refer to additional sources besides those mentioned below. Please list your references at the end of your paper in APA format.

Paper For Above instruction

Major depression, clinically known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms that significantly impair daily functioning (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013). Given the scenario where a 19-year-old is experiencing notable life changes and is suspected of suffering from depression, it is important to approach the situation with empathy, understanding, and a clear presentation of the facts about depression.

Firstly, I would want to educate my cousin about what depression truly is. Often, individuals misunderstand depression as mere sadness or a sign of weak character. I would explain that depression is a medical condition that affects the brain’s chemistry and functioning, similar to other illnesses like diabetes or hypertension. It involves a complex interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors (Kessler et al., 2003). Understanding this helps reduce stigma and encourages seeking help without shame or guilt.

Next, I would encourage my cousin to seek professional help. An initial step could involve consulting a mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist who can perform a comprehensive assessment. This evaluation often includes clinical interviews, standardized questionnaires, and sometimes biological tests to rule out other conditions (National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], 2021). The goal is to determine a proper diagnosis and tailor an effective treatment plan. It is essential to communicate that help is available and that early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

Regarding treatment options, I would recommend a combination of psychotherapy and, if necessary, medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most evidence-based approaches for treating depression, focusing on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depression (Beck, 2011). CBT equips patients with coping skills, gratitude exercises, and problem-solving strategies, which can be especially effective for young adults navigating life transitions.

In some cases, antidepressant medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might be prescribed, particularly if the depression is severe or persistent (Fava, 2003). However, medication is often most effective when combined with therapy, and it requires careful monitoring by a mental health professional due to potential side effects.

It is also important to consider lifestyle interventions, including regular physical activity, adequate sleep, nutritious diet, social connection, and stress management techniques such as mindfulness or meditation (Harvey et al., 2022). These holistic approaches can support psychological health and enhance the effects of formal treatment.

Determining whether a person’s behavior is normal or abnormal involves several criteria. Psychologists often use diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5 (APA, 2013) to assess symptoms according to established criteria. Behavior considered abnormal typically causes significant distress or impairment, deviates from cultural norms, or presents a risk to oneself or others (Widiger, 2019). It is also crucial to evaluate the duration, intensity, and context of symptoms. For example, feelings of intense sadness lasting for weeks with accompanying fatigue, hopelessness, and withdrawal can indicate depression rather than transient mood fluctuations.

In conclusion, helping my cousin understand depression entails educating him about its biological and psychological bases, encouraging him to seek professional assessment and treatment, and supporting lifestyle changes to promote mental wellness. Recognizing the signs of abnormal behavior through standardized criteria is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective intervention. With proper care, most individuals suffering from depression can recover and regain a meaningful, fulfilling life.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
• Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond. Guilford Press.
• Fava, G. A. (2003). Current patterns of distress in depression: Implications for treatment. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 64(Suppl 13), 1-5.
• Harvey, L. A., et al. (2022). Lifestyle interventions and mental health: A review. Journal of Mental Health, 31(2), 123-135.
• Kessler, R. C., et al. (2003). The epidemiology of major depressive disorder: Results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. JAMA, 289(23), 3095-3105.
• National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Major depression. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression
• Widiger, T. A. (2019). The DSM-5 classification of mental disorders. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 15, 2.1-2.26.