medications definition and empathic responses to a client with major depressive disorder

Mini-Script for Nancy

Defining MDD

Official definitions of depression or major depressive disorder and their related mood disorders have changed over the years and will continue to change as new research emerges. The simplest way to describe MDD is a low mood, a loss of interest or passion for life that “negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act,” (APA, 2020). More importantly for you is knowing how to recognize the symptoms through self-monitoring, empowering yourself with this knowledge so that you can manage your symptoms and learn to thrive. The goal would be to thrive not in spite of MDD but because of it, helping you see that your struggles can become your source of strength if you are willing to work through it rather than run from the pain.

Explaining the role and action of antidepressants

Medications can be helpful, even essential, for some people. On the other hand, not all patients with MDD respond well to antidepressants so it is important to pay close attention to how you are personally responding to any medications a psychiatrist provides. It is important to note that most researchers have found that antidepressants like SSRIs are most likely to be helpful when combined with therapy; on their own they are no magic bullet and can even backfire (Clevenger, Malhotra, Dang, et al., 2017). It is best to view SSRIs and other medications as tools like crutches that help you to heal, but to remember that ultimately you need to do some hard work in therapy.

Providing an explanation about the role of counseling alongside antidepressant medications…

Major depressive disorder is a “common” concern according to the American Psychiatric Association (2020), meaning that you are most certainly not alone and may be surprised at how many people you already know, love, and work with who struggle with these same issues. While everyone experiences MDD in their own way, sharing your feelings and experiences in group therapy can be of great help to you on your healing journey.

Offering one or more empathetic reflections to Nancy.

Dealing with MDD is challenging, but potentially rewarding. You are not alone in your struggle. Always remember that life is filled with both sorrow and joy and that you have the power within you to change how you think and feel by doing exactly what you are doing now: seeking help in a courageous fashion in therapy.