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Argumentative Essay on Depression

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Published: Aug 1, 2024

Words: 988 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

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Causes of depression, the impact of depression, the importance of seeking treatment.

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Major Depressive Disorder Essay

Introduction.

This assignment is a discussion on the topic of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).The discussion is based on the definition of Major Depressive Disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR).

The purpose of the discussion is to analyze the definition of MDD and identify any gaps based on the social and biomedical perspectives, after which it gives the recommendations to fill the gaps in the definition so as to inform the definition of the MDD in the next edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The discussion starts with a definition of MDD, then goes on to identify the gaps and the recommendations to fill the gaps. At the end is a conclusion which sums up the main arguments of the discussion.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Criteria for Defining MDD

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders bases its definition of MDD majorly on the criteria of consistence and persistence of symptoms. The criteria distinguish MDD from depression by describing MDD as occurring in a prolonged manner, usually for a period of two weeks.

It defines MDD as a form of depression in which the patient experiences feelings of disturbed moods in a recurrent manner. The mood disturbance cause disruption of the patient’s normal mood and makes him or her unable to adjust or behave accordingly in school, family setting as well as in work.

The criteria of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders does not have any kind of diagnosis for MDD but relies on observation of the patient, the patient’s own account of changes in mood as well as reports by close friends or relatives on the observed changes in mood in the patient.

The most notable symptoms which are relied on in diagnosing for MDD include day to day mood changes lasting for more than two weeks, lack of interest in virtually all daily activities even those which are very interesting, instances of daytime sleep (hypersomnia), loss of appetite which leads to loss of body weight, or a weight gain by more than 5 kilograms, inability to concentrate or think aptly, fatigue which leads to feelings of tiredness even after waking up, occasional thoughts about death which are accompanied by feelings of worthlessness, and suicidal or homicidal tendencies.

On the symptom of depressed mood however, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria does not categorize depressed moods caused by things like drug and alcohol use or misuse, or depressed mood caused by other medical illnesses or conditions as MDD.

It does not also diagnose MDD for patients who are believed to have histories of mixed episodes, mania, bipolar disorder or hypomanic. Similarly, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria do not attribute the symptoms of depression caused by stress and bereavement in the criteria for diagnosing for MDD.

The treatment and management of MDD under the criteria of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders mainly constitutes of three major interventions namely psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy and the use of antidepressants. For psychotherapy, the criteria recommend cognitive behavioral therapy both to the victim and his or her family members as well as close friends.

It also recommends the method of psychoanalysis which was proposed by Sigmund Freud as a way of reconciling the past experiences with the present so as to help the patient get rid of the traumatic experiences of the past and live in a new orientation. According to the criteria, psychotherapy is recommended for patients with mild forms of MDD.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders recommends antidepressant intervention for the severe cases of MDD which are accompanied by other mental illnesses. The commonly used antidepressant is the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), which is known to be effective especially for those patients who have recurrent episodes of MDD as well as those who respond negatively to psychotherapy.

Electroconvulsive therapy is recommended for those patients who do not respond positively to both psychotherapy and antidepressants. It is also recommended for those patients who have suicidal tendencies, or those who are faced with the threat of dying due to their inability to eat or drink. It involves the generation of seizures in the patient’s brain through the use of electric waves especially when the patient is in a state of anesthesia.

The Gaps in the Definition and Recommendations

One major gap in the above definition of MDD is that the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders does not consider social factors such as stress, stigma, criticism from other people, isolation and other relationship problems and challenges in its definition of MDD.

According to a study done by Kleinman in 2004, negative criticism especially from family members is a major cause of MDD especially among women (Kleinman, 2004. pp.951-953). Other researchers have found out that grieve may be a cause of MDD, especially if the patient loses loved ones in a series of episodes. The prolonged stress as a result of bereavement may precipitate MDD in the patients, especially if the patients had strong emotional attachment to the deceased.

The next edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders should therefore consider including in its criteria of the causes of MDD the social factors mentioned above. This would allow for wider conceptualizations of the disorder, consequently leading to a wider conceptualization of its treatment and management. This would also widen the scope, especially with regard to counseling approaches involved. Such a move may see the inclusion of bereavement counseling as a way of dealing with or managing MDD.

Going by the Diathesis-Stress perspective of mental illness, the criteria for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has got some other gaps in its definition and conceptualization of MDD. According to this perspective, individuals are born with certain predispositions, which are nurtured by environmental interactions into specific thought patterns and or personalities, some of which may manifest themselves as MDD.

The diathesis stress perspective identifies various predispositions which may shape the future personalities of young children. Such predispositions include genetics, neurotransmitters, neurobiology and the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis (Martinowich & Lu, 2008. pp.342-348). The next edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders should therefore comprise the above mentioned predispositions in its definition and conceptualization of MDD.

This is because with such a gap in a definition of an important concept like MDD, it can make the diagnosis and treatment too narrow, biased and consequently inappropriate and inadequate in dealing with the disorder. The idea of the current edition of ignoring symptoms linked to personalities is tantamount to ignoring a very important aspect of mental illnesses. MDD should therefore be contextualized not only in terms of the duration in which it occurs but also on the history of the individual especially in regard to the above predispositions.

The other gap which is found in the definition and conceptualization of MDD in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental criteria is the role of sleep patterns in MDD. According to Krishnan, both ‘decreased REM latency’ and ‘decreased slow wave sleep’ are known to be major contributors of MDD. This is because upon the necessary intervention to deal with them, most patients show improvement in the severity of symptoms of MDD.

Based the findings by Krishnan, the next edition should include the sleep patterns in the diagnosis for MDD. This would make the treatment of MDD more inclusive and consequently effective, as opposed to the current situation in which the sleep disorders and patterns are completely ignored in the diagnosis and treatment of MDD.

This assignment was a discussion on the topic of major depressive disorder. The discussion was based on the current edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) and how it defines MDD. From the discussion, it has emerged that the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) criteria is perhaps the most comprehensive approach in defining MDD as well as other mental illnesses.

The criteria for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines MDD based on the criteria of the duration of the symptoms, which it puts at two weeks. In the diagnosis of MDD, the criteria rely on observations of symptoms like suicidal tendencies and lack of concentration in the patients. These symptoms may be reported by the patient or his or her close friends or family members.

One of the gaps which have been identified in the definition is the ignorance of some predispositions like genetics as well as social factors like stigma, isolation and criticisms. One of the recommendations is that the next edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders should factor in the issues identified above so as to fill the gap in the definition and make the diagnosis and treatment of MDD more inclusive and effective.

Kleinman, A. (2004).Culture and Depressions. The New England Journal of Medicine, (351) 10, pp.951-953.

Krishnan. (2010). Epidemiology, Pathogenesis & Neurobiology of Depression. Web.

Martinowich, K., & Lu, B.(2008). Interaction between BDNF and Serotonin: Role in Mood Disorders. Neuropsychophamacology: Official Publication of the American College of Neuropsychophamacology, 12(3), pp.342-348.

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IvyPanda. (2018, October 17). Major Depressive Disorder. https://ivypanda.com/essays/major-depressive-disorder/

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Essay on Depression

Essay generator.

Depression, a common yet often misunderstood mental health disorder, intricately intertwines with our thinking patterns. This essay aims to explore the depths of depression, how it affects thinking, and the broader implications for individuals, particularly for students engaging in essay writing competitions.

Depression is more than just a fleeting sense of sadness. It is a clinical condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in life. Its symptoms range from changes in sleep and appetite to difficulty concentrating and feelings of worthlessness.

The Science Behind Depression

Depression stems from a complex interaction of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Neuroscientific research suggests that depression is linked to changes in neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin and dopamine, and neural circuitry in the brain.

Depression’s Impact on Thinking

Depression significantly affects cognitive processes. It alters the way individuals perceive themselves, their lives, and the world around them.

• Negative Thought Patterns : Individuals with depression often experience persistent negative thoughts. They may have a pessimistic view of themselves, believing they are inadequate or worthless.
• Rumination : Those suffering from depression tend to ruminate, or excessively think about their problems and distress. This rumination can create a vicious cycle, exacerbating depressive symptoms and impairing problem-solving.
• Impaired Cognitive Functioning : Depression can affect concentration, memory, and decision-making capabilities. It can lead to difficulties in focusing and retaining information, impacting academic and professional performance.
• Distorted Reality : In severe cases, depression can lead to distorted thinking, where one’s perception of reality is significantly impaired. This might include having an overly negative interpretation of minor events or believing in things that have no basis in reality.

The Role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a common and effective treatment for depression. It is based on the concept that changing negative thinking patterns and behaviors can lead to changes in emotions.

• Identifying Negative Thoughts : CBT involves recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns.
• Behavioral Activation : It encourages engaging in activities that are rewarding or enjoyable, even when one doesn’t feel like it.
• Developing Coping Strategies : CBT helps in developing practical skills to manage symptoms and cope with challenges.

Depression in Adolescents and Young Adults

Depression in adolescents and young adults is a serious mental health concern that can have significant and lasting effects on individuals’ lives. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Prevalence: Depression is not uncommon among adolescents and young adults. It is estimated that around 15% of teenagers will experience at least one major depressive episode before reaching adulthood.
• Symptoms: The symptoms of depression in this age group can vary but often include persistent sadness, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
• Impact on Daily Life: Depression can severely disrupt daily life. Young people with depression may struggle academically, socially, and in their family relationships. It can lead to school absenteeism, social withdrawal, and even substance abuse.
• Risk Factors: Various factors can increase the risk of depression in adolescents and young adults, including genetic predisposition, family history of depression, trauma or abuse, chronic illness, and high levels of stress.
• Co-Occurring Disorders: Depression often co-occurs with other mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders, making diagnosis and treatment more complex.
• Barriers to Seeking Help: Many adolescents and young adults may hesitate to seek help for depression due to stigma, lack of awareness, or fear of judgment. This can delay diagnosis and treatment.
• Treatment Options: Treatment for depression typically includes psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), medication (in some cases), lifestyle changes (like regular exercise and a healthy diet), and support from family and friends.
• Importance of Early Intervention: Early intervention is crucial in managing depression. Recognizing the signs and symptoms and seeking help promptly can improve outcomes and prevent the worsening of the condition.
• Prevention: Efforts to prevent depression in this age group include promoting emotional resilience, teaching coping skills, providing a supportive environment, and reducing stressors when possible.
• Family and Peer Support: The support of family members and friends is invaluable in helping adolescents and young adults cope with depression. Open communication and understanding can make a significant difference.
• Educational and Community Resources: Schools and communities can play a vital role in recognizing and addressing depression. Educational programs and accessible mental health resources can benefit young individuals.

Breaking the Stigma

There is a significant stigma attached to depression, often preventing individuals from seeking help. Breaking this stigma is essential.

• Open Conversations : Encouraging discussions about mental health can foster a more supportive environment.
• Education and Awareness : Educating people about the realities of depression is crucial in dispelling myths and misconceptions.
• Promoting Mental Health Resources : Access to mental health resources and counseling should be promoted in schools and workplaces.

Personal Reflections in Essay Writing

When writing about depression, it’s important to:

• Use Empathetic Language : Be sensitive and understanding in your choice of words.
• Incorporate Personal Narratives : If comfortable, sharing personal experiences can provide a powerful perspective.
• Highlight Resilience and Hope : Focus on stories of overcoming challenges, resilience, and the potential for positive change.

In conclusion, Depression, a complex interplay of emotional, cognitive, and biological factors, profoundly impacts thinking patterns. Understanding this relationship is crucial, especially for students who may face academic and social pressures that can exacerbate these issues. Writing about depression in a thoughtful, informed, and empathetic manner not only raises awareness but also contributes to a more supportive and understanding society. As we continue to explore and understand depression, we open doors to more effective treatments and a world where mental health is given the attention and care it deserves.

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Essay on Depression

Students are often asked to write an essay on Depression in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Depression

Understanding depression.

Depression is a mental health condition that affects a person’s mood. It’s more than just feeling sad or upset. People with depression may feel hopeless, lose interest in things they used to enjoy, and struggle with daily tasks.

Causes of Depression

Depression can be caused by various factors. These include biological changes in the brain, genetics, personal life experiences, and certain medications. It’s important to remember that it’s not a sign of weakness or a character flaw.

Recognizing Depression

Depression can appear differently in different people. Some might feel constantly sad, while others might lose interest in activities. It can also cause physical symptoms like changes in appetite or sleep patterns.

Treating Depression

Depression is treatable. Treatments include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a healthy diet. It’s crucial to seek help if you or someone you know is showing signs of depression.

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250 Words Essay on Depression

Depression, a common yet serious mental health disorder, is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It affects individuals differently, leading to a variety of physical and emotional problems.

Causes and Risk Factors

Depression is a complex disorder with multiple contributing factors. Genetics play a significant role; individuals with a family history of depression are more likely to experience it. Environmental factors, such as exposure to violence, neglect, abuse, or poverty, also increase the risk. Personal characteristics, like low self-esteem or being overly dependent, self-critical, or pessimistic, can make individuals more prone to depression.

Impact on Life

Depression drastically impacts life quality. It can lead to social isolation, problems at work or school, and relationship difficulties. In severe cases, it can cause suicidal thoughts or actions, underlining the importance of seeking professional help.

Treatment and Management

Depression is treatable with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and problem-solving therapy are effective therapeutic approaches. Antidepressants can also help manage symptoms. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep, are crucial for managing depression.

Depression is a significant global health issue that requires understanding, empathy, and awareness. By acknowledging its complexity and impact, we can foster an environment that supports mental health and well-being.

500 Words Essay on Depression

Introduction: unveiling depression.

Depression, a common and serious mental health disorder, is often characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It is a complex condition that not only affects the individual’s mental state but also their physical health, often leading to a myriad of complications if left untreated.

Understanding the Causes

Depression is multifactorial, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development. It is believed that a combination of genetic vulnerability and environmental stressors like trauma, loss of a loved one, or a difficult relationship can trigger changes in brain function and structure, leading to depression. Neurotransmitters, chemicals that facilitate communication between nerve cells, are also implicated in the pathogenesis of depression.

Manifestations of Depression

Depression manifests in various forms. Major Depressive Disorder, the most common, is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or a lack of interest in outside stimuli. There’s also Persistent Depressive Disorder, a chronic form of depression where an individual experiences symptoms for at least two years. Other forms include Postpartum Depression, experienced after childbirth, and Seasonal Affective Disorder, which typically occurs during winter.

Impact on Daily Life

Depression significantly impairs an individual’s ability to function in their daily life. It affects their productivity at work or school, disrupts their relationships, and reduces their overall quality of life. It also increases the risk of other serious conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. In severe cases, depression can lead to suicidal ideation or attempts, making it a potentially life-threatening condition.

Depression and Stigma

Despite its prevalence and severity, depression is often stigmatized and misunderstood. Many people view it as a sign of weakness or dismiss it as mere sadness. This stigma can deter individuals from seeking help, exacerbating their condition. It is thus crucial to foster an understanding of depression as a serious health issue, not a personal failing.

Depression is generally treated with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are effective treatment modalities. Antidepressants can also help regulate brain chemistry and alleviate symptoms. However, treatment is highly individualized, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Depression is a pervasive and debilitating condition that requires our urgent attention. By increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and improving access to treatment, we can ensure that those suffering from depression receive the help they need. As a society, we must strive to understand and empathize with those battling depression, encouraging them to seek help without fear of judgement. Only then can we hope to truly combat this global mental health crisis.

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