Depression Conceptualization and Treatment: Dialogues from Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Perspectives

Depression is a common clinical disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a significant cause of disability and has a high risk of recidivism, particularly since its most common form, Major Depressive Disorder, tends to occur in episodes. Depression is also associated with other mental and physical health conditions, such as heart disease and cancer, making it a risk factor for mortality and morbidity. To better understand Depression as a clinical disorder, one needs to look at it as a multifaceted phenomenon that involves biological, neural, hormonal, and pharmacological factors. It is also a socio-demographic phenomenon that is more prevalent in certain regions, climates, age groups, and genders and is associated with stereotypes and stigma. The etiology of Depression remains under scrutiny, but recent knowledge is emerging from contemporary neuroimaging, genotyping, and data science methods. Different therapeutic approaches, such as those stemming from the psychoanalytic/psychodynamic perspectives and those stemming from the cognitive/behavioral (2nd and 3rd wave) tradition, focus on the components of etiology considered most dominant. This Edited volume discusses the subject of conceptualizing and treating Depression and related conditions from different theoretical perspectives and after taking into consideration current research into the etiology and maintenance of this condition. Chapters on theoretical perspectives of treatment cover a wide range of approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, 2nd-wavelength CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mentalization therapy. Special topics with great relevance to treatment include treatment in different levels of care, prevention of suicide, and working with cancer patients. The book provides a unique combination of current empirical findings on the etiology of depression and suicide, treatment considerations, and practical recommendations, treatment in different settings, and combination of different theoretical perspectives that can enrich a therapist's repertoire of tools for understanding and approaching depression. The two editors, Drs. Christos Charis and Georgia Panayiotou, make an effort to impartially integrate information from the various perspectives, highlighting the utility of each approach to address specific vulnerability and etiological factors discussed in the book. The volume stresses the idea of the need for continuous and open dialogue between perspectives, theories, levels of investigation, research areas, practitioner needs, and scientific views to help make progress in treatment and address this complex and multi-faceted phenomenon in the service of patients, their carers, and societies in general.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Depression, a prevalent clinical disorder, holds significant importance and relevance in the realm of clinical research and practice. Its prevalence, profound impact on individuals and society, associations with other mental and physical health issues, and the social contexts in which it emerges make it a crucial topic to address. In Germany and central Europe, depression ranks as the third leading mental disorder, and globally, it is a leading cause of disability. According to estimates, approximately 8.3% of the German population experiences depression within a year, with 11.2% of women and 5.5% of men affected. These statistics translate to approximately 4 million individuals experiencing depression in Germany alone annually (one-year prevalence).

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 300 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and in the United States, the financial burden of this disorder due to disability and work absenteeism reaches alarming proportions. Moreover, depression is on the rise, with a high risk of recurrence, particularly in the case of its most prevalent form, Major Depressive Disorder (DSM-5; ICD-10), which often manifests in episodes. For instance, between 20% and 40% of individuals experience a new depressive episode within two years of their initial episode, underscoring the need for therapeutic interventions to prevent future relapses.

Depression also exhibits strong comorbidities with various mental and physical health conditions. The overlap with anxiety pathology is particularly notable, raising concerns among clinicians about whether these disorders should be considered distinct or if there exists substantial etiological overlap. Depression also has links to heart disease and even cancer, making it a significant risk factor for mortality and morbidity that requires early identification and effective management. In addition to Major Depressive Disorder, another severe condition associated with depression is Bipolar Disorder, which often presents with intense and disruptive mood swings.

Addressing depression requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses various aspects of care. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy, can help individuals understand and manage their symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall well-being. Medication, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and atypical antipsychotics, can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and improve mood. Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques, can also play a vital role in managing depression.

In conclusion, depression is a complex clinical disorder that requires urgent attention and comprehensive treatment. Its prevalence, impact on individuals and society, associations with other mental and physical health problems, and the social contexts in which it develops make it a priority for clinical researchers and practitioners alike. By understanding the nature of depression, implementing effective treatment strategies, and promoting awareness and support, we can work towards reducing the burden of this disorder and improving the well-being of individuals affected by it.

Weight: 465g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030689315
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021