Unipolar depression Symptoms and Features Biological Explanation Bio-chemical explanation: The Catecholamine Hypotheses Cognitive Explanation Beck’s Cognitive Triad Treatments for depression Biological Approach: Anti-depressants Cognitive Approach: CBT

Common cold of psychopathology? "Depression has been labelled the common cold of psychopathology. This comparison is unfortunate, for it conveys the impression of a frequent but mild complaint. In reality depression is not only the most frequent mental health problem, but is among the most serious" PAUL GILBERT, Depression: The Evolution of Powerlessness

NHS Guidance on depression http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/depression/Pages/Introduction.aspx http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Depression/Pages/Vanessasstory.aspx

Types of depression Unipolar (depression) www.psychlotron.org.uk Unipolar (depression) Major depressive disorder (Endogenous or reactive) Dysthymic disorder Psychotic depression Bipolar disorder (manic-depression)

Unipolar Depression Range of physical and psychological symptoms Cyclical disorder; it comes and goes but is long-lasting Symptoms may be present for 4-6 months at a time then go again People with this diagnosis usually have symptoms about 27.5% of the time

Prevalence Lifetime prevalence of 5-9% NHS website for UK says 15% (3.5 Million sufferers) hard to estimate - many don’t seek help About 2 x more likely in women Men more likely to commit suicide less likely to seek treatment 2% British teenagers are depressed but onset often 30-40 and peaks around 50-60 More common in lower socio-economic groups

More features Some cases of depression can be treated and do not return whereas other suffers throughout their lives People with depression tend to have shorter life expectancy Depression can be linked to physical conditions, e.g. heart disease Depression sometimes follows significant life events, especially those involving loss, e.g. loss of loved one, job, house, marriage etc.