Depression -A-Level Psychology
Depression
Depression is a mental disorder characterised by low mood and low energy levels.
The DSM-V distinguishes between major depressive order and persistent depressive order which is longer term or recurring.
Behavioural characteristics:
Shifts in activity level-either reduced or increased e.g sleeping,restless
Disruption to sleeping and eating behaviours-some people sleep more and some may experience insomnia,appetite may be increased/decreased
Emotional characteristics:
Sadness-they feel empty
Loss of interest and pleasure in usual activities or hobbies is associated with feelings of despair and lack of control
Low self-esteem-they may feel worthless and hopeless
Anger-this may be anger directed towards others or themselves
Cognitive characteristics:
Poor concentration-leads to poor decision making
Absolutist thinking-when they see an unfortunate situation they view it as a complete disaster
Attending to and dwelling on the negative-most likely to ignore the positives of a situation .They have a negative view of the world.
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that one used to enjoy. It can affect a person’s thoughts, behavior, and physical health.
Symptoms of depression may include a persistent low mood, lack of energy, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite and weight, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
The causes of depression are complex and can include biological, psychological, and social factors. Genetics, brain chemistry, life events, and personality traits can all contribute to the development of depression.
Treatment for depression may involve a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Antidepressant medication can help alleviate symptoms, while cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop coping strategies and address negative thought patterns.
If you know someone who is struggling with depression, it’s important to offer support and understanding. Encourage them to seek professional help and listen to them without judgment. Try to provide practical assistance with daily tasks if they are having trouble completing them.
There are several different types of depression, including major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, postpartum depression, and bipolar disorder.
Risk factors for depression may include a family history of depression, chronic illness or pain, substance abuse, stressful life events, and a history of trauma or abuse.
While there is no surefire way to prevent depression, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking treatment for any underlying health conditions or mental health concerns can reduce the risk of developing depression.
Depression can affect the brain in various ways, including changes in brain chemistry, decreased activity in certain brain regions, and altered connections between different brain areas. These changes can affect mood, cognition, and behavior.
Prioritizing self-care, seeking support from friends and family, and developing healthy coping strategies can all help support your own mental health. It’s also important to seek professional help if you’re struggling with depression or any other mental health concerns.
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