just give up theory

[max_frisch]

We will understand depression only when understand the evolutionary origins and functions of the capacity for high and low mood. I use the terms high and low mood because the term depression, even mild depression, has become closely associated with pathology. The question is why individuals with a capacity for mood variation have a selective advantage over those with no capacity for mood. The general answer has been understood well for decades. Klinger's seminar work showed the utility of disengaging motivation from unreachable efforts. The first stage is to look for a new strategy to reach the goal, or just to wait for a better time. If nothing works and efforts seem likely to never succeed, motivation disengages completely and turns to some other more achievable goal. If a person for some reason cannot give up an unreachable goal, as is often the case for things like finding a job, keeping a partner, or helping a child, persistence escalates ordinary low mood into clinical depression. This is not to say that all depression results from pursuing unreachable goals. It is clear that much arises from primary brain abnormalities in people whose lives are otherwise potentially satisfying. However, in my clinical work, I find that asking the question reveals new complexities about half of the time. Identifying an unreachable goal is only the barest starting point for treatment. Nothing could be more stupid and cruel than to just tell people to give up their goals. But nothing can be more empowering than being deeply understood by someone who tries to understand what you are trying to do, and why you cannot stop despite no hope of success.

Randolph Nesse - Depression

We will understand depression only when understand the evolutionary origins and functions of the capacity for high and low mood. I use the terms high and low mood because the term depression, even mild depression, has become closely associated with pathology. The question is why individuals with a

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