Psychological Problems

is a complex and multifaceted aspect of  human well-being encompassing emotional, psychological, and social dimensions. 

It involves individuals actively participating in society and effectively coping with life's challenges.

Shifts in societal structures, norms, and values can impact mental health. 

Socioeconomic disparities can impact access to mental health resources. 

Certain cultural expectations or stressors unique to specific cultural groups may contribute to mental health challenges.

Increased awareness and understanding of mental health conditions through educational programs, media, and public health campaigns can lead to a higher recognition of symptoms.

Media portrayal and representation of mental health can shape public perceptions.

Individual Effects and Social Effects

also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a debilitating mental health condition characterized by persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in most activities. 

Major Depressive Disorder

Unipolar and Bipolar Depression

is characterized by recurrent episodes of low mood without periods of mania.

involves mood swings between periods of depression and periods of mania or hypomania.

changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or hypersomnia), alterations in appetite (weight loss or gain), and decreased energy levels.

This involves feelings of sadness, emptiness, or irritability.

Individuals with clinical depression often experience a significant decrease in energy levels, leading to fatigue and lethargy.

Difficulty falling asleep or excessive sleeping can be indicators.

Alterations in appetite, leading to weight loss or gain, are considered in the diagnostic process.

Changes in physical activity levels, either restlessness or slowed movements, may be observed.

Impaired cognitive function, including difficulties concentrating, making decisions, and recalling information, is often reported.

Persistent feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt are common features of clinical depression.

Thoughts of death or suicide, or actual suicide attempts, may be present in severe cases.

describe the inability to experience pleasure or a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. It is often associated with depression and other mental health disorders.

is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other physiological functions. It is often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter because it contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.

which is involved in memory and emotion regulation, may be smaller in individuals with depression.

hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal

posits that negative thoughts and cognitive distortions play a significant role in the development and maintenance of depression.

proposes that individuals with depression may experience feelings of helplessness due to their perception of having little or no control over their life circumstances. This theory suggests that repeated exposure to uncontrollable negative events can lead to a belief that one's actions have no impact on the outcome, resulting in a sense of helplessness.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

is a psychotherapy approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It aims to help individuals identify and change negative or unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their difficulties.

is often a sign of tolerance, where the body adapts to the presence of the substance, necessitating higher doses for the same effect.

Genetic vulnerability, neurobiological adaptations, and neurotransmitter imbalances contribute to the development of addictive behaviors.

Psychological factors, such as peer influence, coping mechanisms, and environmental influences, play a crucial role in the initiation and maintenance of addictive behaviors.

Addiction is viewed as a learned behavior, influenced by reinforcement, conditioning, and environmental cues.

Individuals learn substance use behaviors through observation, imitation, and reinforcement within their social environment.

Distorted thought patterns and maladaptive beliefs contribute to addictive behaviors. The focus is on identifying and changing these cognitive processes.

Addiction is conceptualized as a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Motivational Enhancement Therapy