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The history of depression as a recognised mental disorder stretches back for centuries, although our understanding and treatment of it have evolved significantly over time. Here is an overview of the history of depression:
- Ancient and Classical Periods: Depressive symptoms were observed and documented in ancient civilisations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The ancient Greeks attributed depression to an imbalance of bodily fluids, specifically an excess of black bile.
- Middle Ages and Renaissance: During the Middle Ages, depression was often associated with spiritual or supernatural causes. The influential physician and philosopher Avicenna described melancholia as a psychological disorder characterised by sadness, loss of interest, and bodily symptoms. In the Renaissance period, melancholia was seen as a condition of deep philosophical and artistic insight.
- 18th and 19th Centuries: The concept of depression began to take shape as a medical condition during this period. In the 18th century, the Scottish physician William Cullen coined the term “neuroses” to describe various mental disorders, including depression. The term “melancholia” continued to be used, but its meaning shifted to refer more specifically to severe forms of depression.
- 20th Century: In the early 20th century, Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theories had a significant impact on the understanding of depression. Freud saw depression as a manifestation of unresolved internal conflicts and repressed emotions. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was also introduced in the 1930s as a treatment for severe depression.
- Modern Era: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association, has played a crucial role in defining and classifying depression. The DSM-III, released in 1980, introduced specific diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD). Since then, subsequent editions have refined the criteria and expanded the understanding of depression.
The introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the late 1980s revolutionised the treatment of depression. These medications became the first-line pharmacological approach for managing depressive symptoms.
Over time, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of psychotherapy and other non-pharmacological treatments for depression. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other forms of therapy have been shown to be effective in helping individuals manage depression.
The understanding of depression has also evolved to recognise that it is a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. There is ongoing research to better understand the neurobiology and underlying mechanisms of depression, as well as to develop more targeted and personalised treatments.
It’s important to note that the history of depression is vast and complex, and this overview provides a general perspective on its evolution over time.
