Reactive Depression (Noun)
Meaning
An inappropriate state of depression that is precipitated by events in the person's life (to be distinguished from normal grief).
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Her mother's death from a long illness led to a normal grief process, but the sudden loss of her job triggered a reactive depression.
- After a series of stressful life events, including a divorce and moving to a new city, he experienced reactive depression that required professional help.
- Reactive depression is a common response to major life changes or significant losses, but it can be distinguished from normal grief by its disproportionate intensity and duration.
- The doctor explained that her feelings of sadness and hopelessness were not just a normal adjustment to her recent breakup, but rather symptoms of reactive depression that needed treatment.
- His reactive depression following the end of his business venture was intensified by the financial stress and loss of identity that came with it.