Understanding Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Assessment Description

After reviewing the topic assigned chapters and the electronic resources in your study Topic Resources, choose between bipolar, major depression, or a somatic disorder. Create a newsletter or brochure that is between 750–1,200 words, either through Canva.com, Microsoft Word, or Microsoft PowerPoint, to address the following:

Describe the chosen disorder and the assigned code from the current DSM.,
Identify which psychological model best fits this disorder (i.e. biological cognitive).,
Discuss the etiology of this disorder and the common symptoms, including the manifestation of the symptoms.,
Identify the different forms of treatment and therapy commonly prescribed for this disorder., Discuss the efficacy while considering a multicultural worldview.,
Examine the values and belief systems about behavioral health disorders across cultures. Explain how the various stigmas or beliefs would affect treatment options.
List national and local resources where someone can receive support for this disorder.
Include a minimum of two scholarly sources to support your assignment.

Understanding Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

Understanding Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

DSM-5-TR Code: 296.2x / 296.3x

What Is Major Depressive Disorder?

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly referred to as depression, is a serious and common mood disorder that negatively affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), MDD is categorized under codes 296.2x for a single episode and 296.3x for recurrent episodes. The disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and cognitive and physical symptoms that impair daily functioning.

Psychological Model: The Cognitive Model

The cognitive model, developed by Aaron Beck, is particularly applicable to MDD. This model suggests that depression is largely the result of distorted thinking and negative cognitive patterns. Individuals with MDD often hold dysfunctional beliefs about themselves, the world, and the future — what Beck called the “cognitive triad.”

However, biological factors such as genetics and neurochemical imbalances also play a crucial role, and often a biopsychosocial model is most appropriate for treatment planning.

Etiology: Causes of Major Depression

MDD is multifactorial in origin. Common contributing factors include:

Biological: Low levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine; family history of depression.
Psychological: Negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem, trauma.
Environmental: Stressful life events, poverty, isolation, substance abuse.

Common Symptoms of MDD

To meet diagnostic criteria, symptoms must be present nearly every day for at least two weeks:

Persistent sadness or emptiness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Significant weight loss or gain
Insomnia or hypersomnia
Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

These symptoms can manifest emotionally (hopelessness), physically (fatigue, pain), and behaviorally (withdrawal, neglecting responsibilities).

Treatment and Therapy Options

Treatment for MDD is highly individualized and may include:

1. Psychotherapy:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps patients reframe negative thoughts.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and communication.

2. Medications:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): e.g., fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft)
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): e.g., venlafaxine
Tricyclic antidepressants or MAOIs in treatment-resistant cases

3. Other Approaches:

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): For severe or treatment-resistant cases.
Lifestyle Interventions: Regular exercise, healthy diet, sleep hygiene.

Understanding Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Multicultural Considerations & Treatment Efficacy

In many cultures, mental health disorders such as depression may be misunderstood or stigmatized. For instance:

Asian and Latinx cultures may emphasize physical symptoms or somatization over emotional ones.
African American communities may rely more on spiritual coping or distrust mental health systems due to systemic biases.
Indigenous populations may benefit from community and ritual-based healing rather than traditional Western therapy.

Culturally adapted therapies have proven more effective than generic models. Providers must incorporate cul

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Understanding Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)