neurotic depression

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Neurotic Depression

Definition: Neurotic depression is a term used to describe a type of depression that is not caused by a serious mental illness (like psychosis). People who experience neurotic depression may feel sad, anxious, or stressed, but they are still aware of reality and can think clearly.

Usage Instructions:

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Context: It is often used in psychology or discussions about mental health.
• How to Use: You can say, "She is struggling with neurotic depression," to describe someone who feels sad but is in touch with reality.

Example Sentence:

• "After a difficult breakup, he developed neurotic depression, feeling overwhelmed by sadness and worry."

Advanced Usage:

In clinical discussions, you might encounter terms like "neuroticism" (a personality trait involving anxiety and emotional instability) or "depressive disorders." Neurotic depression can be discussed in relation to therapy, coping mechanisms, and treatment options.

Word Variants:

• Neurosis: A broader term that refers to mental disorders that cause anxiety or distress but do not include psychotic symptoms.
• Depression: A general term for a state of low mood and aversion to activity.

Different Meanings:

While "neurotic depression" specifically refers to a type of depression, "neurotic" on its own can refer to a range of anxiety-related disorders without the depressive element.

Synonyms:

• Anxiety depression: A term that emphasizes the anxious aspects of the depression.
• Mood disorder: A broader term that includes various types of depressive states.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Down in the dumps": This idiom means feeling sad or depressed, which is similar to what someone with neurotic depression might feel.
• "Fight off": To try to overcome feelings of depression or anxiety; for example, "She is trying to fight off her neurotic depression by staying active."

Summary:

Neurotic depression is a specific type of depression characterized by feelings of sadness and anxiety without losing touch with reality. It's important to recognize the symptoms and seek help if needed.

Academic

Noun

1. a term used for any state of depression that is not psychotic