The discussion assignment provides a forum to discuss the relevant topics for this week based on the course competencies covered. For this assignment make sure to answer all questions by the due date assigned. Provide a detailed response directly in the Discussion Area. Do not use attached documents. To support your work, make sure to utilize your course and text readings. When asked, also utilize outside sources. As in all assignments, make sure to cite and provide references for your sources utilizing APA format. Start reviewing and responding to the postings of your classmates as early in the week as possible. Respond to at least two of your classmates. Participate in the discussion by asking a question, providing a statement of clarification, providing a point of view with a rationale, challenging an aspect of the discussion, or indicating a relationship between one or more lines of reasoning in the discussion. Complete your participation for this assignment by the end of the week. Applied Psychology The purpose of this assignment is to review some of the psychological disorders that psychologists and other mental health professionals may be working with in their profession. For this assignment, please use the National Institute of Mental Health (information on psychological disorders and treatment). Describe at least one major psychological disorder. What is the disorder? The types if any Possible causes Signs and symptoms Diagnosis Treatment (medications and psychotherapy)

Psychological Disorder: Major Depressive Disorder

Depression is a mental illness marked by low mood, despondency, and an inability to enjoy life (Gutiérrez-Rojas et al., 2020). Depression can affect a person's thoughts, behaviors, and overall functioning, and have a significant impact on their quality of life.

Types and Causes

There are several types of depression. One type of depression that may persist for years is called persistent depressive illness. A seasonal affective disorder manifests as a kind of depression only during specific times of the year. Third, postpartum depression affects women after giving birth (Hasin et al., 2018). Although the precise causes of depression remain unknown, studies suggest that a blend of biological, ecological, and psychological variables play a role (Hasin et al., 2018). Some potential causes of depression include a family history of the disorder, traumatic life events, a chemical imbalance in the brain, and certain medical conditions.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Some of the symptoms of this disorder include misery, pessimism, and helplessness; disinterest in once exciting activities; alterations in eating and sleeping habits; a lack of concentration; low energy and fatigue; and thoughts of death or suicide (Gutiérrez-Rojas et al., 2020). A mental well-being specialist, such as a counselor or psychiatrist, would often diagnose depression after carefully assessing the patient's symptoms and background. It may include a physical examination to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms and a psychological assessment to assess the severity and duration of the symptoms.

Treatment

The treatment for depression usually involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy. Psychiatrists suggest that antidepressant medications, such as SSRIs, are commonly used to help alleviate the symptoms of depression (Hasin et al., 2018). Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can help individuals with depression learn coping skills, identify and change negative thought patterns, and address any underlying issues contributing to their depression. Other treatment options include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which involves the use of electrical stimulation to treat severe depression (Hasin et al., 2018). It is essential to seek treatment for depression as soon as possible, as it is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. With appropriate treatment, most individuals with depression can improve and live fulfilling lives.

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References

Gutiérrez-Rojas, L., Porras-Segovia, A., Dunne, H., Andrade-González, N., & Cervilla, J. A. (2020). Prevalence and correlates of major depressive disorder: a systematic review. Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry, 42, 657-672.

Hasin, D. S., Sarvet, A. L., Meyers, J. L., Saha, T. D., Ruan, W. J., Stohl, M., & Grant, B. F. (2018). Epidemiology of adult DSM-5 major depressive disorder and its specifiers in the United States. JAMA psychiatry, 75(4), 336-346.