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Depression : A Psychological Disorder

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Melissa Rivera
Psychology Research Paper “Depression”
A psychological disorder is a disorder of the mind involving thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that cause either self or others significant distress. Significant distress can mean the person is unable to function, meet personal needs on their own, or are a danger to themselves or others. There are many different psychological disorders, but the disorder I am choosing to focus on is Clinical Depression. Depression ranges in seriousness from mild, temporary episodes of sadness to severe, persistent depression. Clinical depression is the more severe form of depression, also known as major depression or major depressive disorder. It isn 't the same as depression caused by a loss, such as …show more content…

When it comes down to what causes depression, it isn’t completely known but there are many factors that may make someone more prone or subjected to clinical depression. One important factor that may increase someone’s chances of developing this disorder is inherited conditions. Another factor may be an environmental factor. Alcohol or drug abuse are factors also and can create emotional imbalance which can place someone at risk to developing the two forms of clinical depression. Another factor that can put someone at risk is brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that likely play a role in depression. Recent research indicates that changes in the function and effect of these neurotransmitters and how they interact with neurocircuits involved in maintaining mood stability may play a significant role in depression and its treatment (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2016).
Clinical Depression can be treated with many or a combination of methods. First method of treatment would be through medication. Antidepressants are a medication used to alleviate depression, there are many different types to tackle on the different forms of depression. Second form of treating a condition of clinical depression is with psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a popular choice of treating depression and

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