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Depression is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by symptoms such as low mood, fatigue, and anhedonia. It can manifest as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder. The text explores epidemiological insights, psychological theories, biological perspectives, and treatment approaches, emphasizing the need for an integrated strategy to manage depression effectively.
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Mental health professionals use criteria from the ICD-11 and DSM-5 to diagnose depression based on symptoms, severity, and duration
Types of Symptoms
Depression can manifest through various symptoms such as low mood, fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep, and thoughts of death or suicide
Differentiating Between Types of Depression
It is important to differentiate between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, as they involve different types of episodes
Depression affects approximately 4.5% of the UK adult population, with higher rates in women, the elderly, and certain ethnic minorities
Psychological models focus on how environmental factors and personal experiences can contribute to maladaptive thought patterns that lead to depression
CBT is an evidence-based treatment that aims to modify negative cognitive schemas and has shown effectiveness in reducing symptoms of depression
Some theories suggest that depression may have evolved as a mechanism to navigate social hierarchies and minimize conflict
Biological explanations consider genetic factors as a potential cause of depression
Abnormalities in brain structure and imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine may contribute to depression
Medications such as SSRIs can provide symptom relief, but may not address all aspects of depression and can cause side effects
Behavioral theories propose that a reduction in rewarding activities and an increase in avoidance behaviors can lead to and maintain depressive symptoms
Ellis's ABC Model
Ellis's model suggests that emotional distress is often the result of irrational beliefs in response to activating events
Beck's Negative Cognitive Triad
Beck's triad focuses on negative thoughts about oneself, the world, and the future as contributors to depression
This theory explains how individuals may develop depression when they perceive a lack of control over adverse events
Algorino
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