Question

A psychologist would ask many of the same questions. It's a neat little service, but, despite the numerous disclaimers on the site, many psychologists have criticized it as professionally irresponsible.

Depression/suicide is so widespread!!!!  Based on textbook, the above article, your experiences, observations, readings, doctor’s opinions, etc., what is YOUR hold on this disorder? Present an argument in support of online diagnosis. Why might it be valuable? Now, argue against it. Why might the service be problematic? How might it actually be a disservice?  One of your responses must include citings and comments about the above article OR comments from another relevant website that you found. Please share the website that you found.

Depression: Is it genetic? Environmental? Does therapy help? Are medications the answer? Should there be therapy and diagnosis offered online?

Answer 1

Depression and suicide is so widespread. According to world health organization, close to 800000people die due to suicide every year, this is one per every forty second. Suicide occurs throughout the lifespan and is the second leading cause of death. Suicide accounted for 1.4% of all deaths worldwide. Depression is the crucial cause of suicide.

People with depression or suicide tendencies may have high degree of reluctance to seek treatment. It may be due to ignorance, lack of interest or stigma. They may also have difficulties to come out from their comfort zone. In such cases online diagnosis and treatment would be helpful for the management. The treatment team can psychoeducate the patient with insight oriented supportive therapies.

But, online diagnosis and treatment could not serve 100% effectiveness in suicide and depression management. As we said earlier, these patients may have resistance to seek help. Moreover they may not disclose their actual problem through verbal communications. Online diagnosis becomes a barrier to explore more about the patient problem. It may help the patients temporarily but long-term treatment would not be possible with online treatment procedures.

Discussing the etiological factors of depression, both genetics and environmental factors play roles. Researches reveal that 40% vulnerability to genetically transmit depression. Environmental factors such as interpersonal problems, traumatic events, stressful life events etc also contribute depression.

Pharmacological management is effective in case of depression. Even though, medications along with psychotherapeutic interventions are more effective than treatment with medications only. Cognitive behaviour therapy, interpersonal therapy, mindfulness etc are some of the effective therapy for depression.