Understanding Unipolar Depression and Its Causes

Positive Psychology

Focuses on actions for happiness and well-being.

Mindfulness

Awareness of the present moment to enhance happiness.

Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS)

Measures overall happiness through specific questions.

Mood Disorders

Mental health conditions affecting emotional states.

Depression

Low, sad state with overwhelming life challenges.

Mania

State of intense euphoria or frenzied energy.

Unipolar Disorder

Characterized by depression without mania history.

Bipolar Disorder

Involves alternating episodes of depression and mania.

Unipolar Depression

General sadness meeting specific mood disorder criteria.

Commonality of Unipolar Depression

Women more likely than men to experience severe depression.

Recovery Rate

85% of unipolar depression patients eventually recover.

Emotional Symptoms

Feelings of misery, emptiness, and humiliation.

Motivational Symptoms

Lack of drive, initiative, and spontaneity.

Cognitive Symptoms

Negative self-views and self-blame.

Behavioral Symptoms

Decreased activity and productivity levels.

Physical Symptoms

Headaches, dizziness, and general pain.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Single debilitating episode without mania history.

Dysthymic Disorder

Chronic depression lasting at least two years.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Significant depression before menstruation in women.

Disruptive Mood Regulation Disorder

Consistent depressive symptoms with temper outbursts.

Causes of Unipolar Depression

Major life events or stressors preceding symptoms.

Genetic Factors

familial predisposition to depression (depressed individuals can have up to 30% fam members with depression).

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers affecting mood regulation.

Serotonin

Happy hormone; low levels linked to sadness.

Norepinephrine

Excitement neurotransmitter; dysregulation causes issues.

Cortisol

Stress hormone; high levels can worsen depression.

Melatonin

Hormone; abnormal levels may cause depressive symptoms.