Example Of Research Proposal On Depression

Other Details

Introduction
Depression is generally described as low mood, lack of initiative, desolation, and unwillingness to indulge in activity. Depression can adversely affect the behavior and well being of an individual (Salmans, 1997). Individuals affected by depression feel anxious, lose hope, and feel helpless and incapable of taking decisions or performing actions. They are restless and irritable. They are plagued by guild and low self-esteem. Depressed individuals present many behavioral symptoms like loss of appetite, over indulgence, and some even become suicidal. Loss of memory, insomnia, inattentiveness, and absent mindedness are some of the other symptoms of depression (NIMH, 2012).
Depression has been recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual as a psychological disorder. The DSM – IV lists nine diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Presence of at least five of the nine symptoms every day for a prolonged period (more than 2 weeks) may be indicative of depression. These nine symptoms are - Irritability, lack of interest, significant change in weight (5% or more), change in sleep pattern, change in activity, fatigue, guilt, worthlessness, lack of concentration, suicidal tendency (DSM-IV)
Despite the fact that depression has been recognized as a psychological disorder, there is little evidence or recognition of its impact on an individual’s physical health. Depression often goes undetected since the symptoms are often confused with mood changes. There is a general lack of awareness of the long term effects of depression. A study of the impact of depression in physical health will motivate people to look for and recognize depressive tendencies. It will help in early recognition and intervention thus preventing physical illness.
In this study we propose to examine existing research on the impact of depression on physical health both in the short term and in long term. We also propose to examine how early detection can be facilitated so that the long term effects can be prevented. We propose to conduct a meta-analysis of earlier research through a review of existing literature.
Research Question: What are the effects of depression on physical health and how can these effects be prevented.

References

Salmans, Sandra (1997). Depression: Questions You Have – Answers You Need. People's Medical Society ISBN 978-1-882606-14-6
DSM-IV Retrieved From http://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CB0QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.psnpaloalto.com%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2010%2F12%2FDepression-Diagnostic-Criteria-and-Severity-Rating.pdf&ei=vxr5VJSqEcWGuATYtIG4DA&usg=AFQjCNGkzFLepSWFNKwgu7TOXmnbGX-n-w&sig2=8qM6vHcSlV7xc4SXWZC2WQ&bvm=bv.87611401,d.c2E
"NIMH · Depression" nimh.nih.gov Retrieved 15 October 2012