Major Depressive Disorders Case Study

Major depressive disorder is a progressive illness which involves lack of interest in life activities. “To constitute a major depressive episode (MDE), either a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities must be present for at least 2 weeks” (Austin & Boyd, 2015, p. 440). According to diagnostic criteria of DSM V with major depressive disorder should at least meet four of seven symptoms of this illness which can be observed by individuals facial expressions and actions. Symptoms include: disruption in sleep, changes in appetite, fatigue or loss of energy, psychomotor agitation, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating or indecisiveness and recurrent thoughts of death (Austin & Boyd, 2015, p. 441). Risk factors of major depressive disorder is substance abuse, stressful life events, lack of social support, and prior episodes of depression (Austin & Boyd, 2015). A few associated behavioural findings with major depressive disorder include; “occupational problems, marital problems, decreased physical, social, and role

He has been suffering depression for a long time it was shown he was taking medications for it and had eventually stopped visiting the doctor. In several scenes of movie it was shown Walter sleeping as well as showing the lack of interest in any activities with his family or even when his at work. He displayed flat affect, nearly absent emotions. He seemed very depressed and hopeless with everything that was going around him due to the loss in his business and strain in his relationship with his family. He had attempted suicide and had engaged in self harm. In addition he has been drinking alcohol excessively due to his struggle of coping his mental illness. In the movie it was clear enough that Walter was suffering from major depressive