Discussion:
Distinguishing Between Clinical or Major Depression and the Blues
In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), mood disorders include disturbances in emotion ranging from extreme depression to extreme depression to extreme mania. Of course, most people feel sad and joyful from time to time, and, at some time in their lives, will know the grief that follows the loss of someone they love. These feelings, however, are a far cry from the clinical disorder describe in the DSM.
1) Discuss the difference between major depression and the blues. (Provide an example)
2) How do mental health professionals recognize the difference? (Provide an example)
3) What specifically do professionals look for to determine if a client does indeed have a depressive disorder and not just the blues? (Provide an example)
Use scholarly sources to support your answers. Limit the use of direct quotes. (Provide examples) Cite your sources with APA format