Final answer:
Reactive depression is associated with overwhelming emotional pain due to recent life events, distinct from the biochemical imbalances often implicated in other types of depression. Major depression is characterized by an extended period of sadness and a variety of symptoms, with treatments ranging widely based on individual needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
In reactive depression, the feelings of sadness are typically based on events or situations that occur in a person's life, as opposed to a chemical imbalance which might suggest a different type or cause of depression. While early childhood experiences can certainly shape emotional responses and contribute to the development of depression later in life, reactive depression is more directly connected to recent life stressors or events that produce overwhelming emotional pain.
Major depression is a complex mental illness characterized by prolonged periods of sadness and a severely depressed mood that persists for more than two weeks, often without a clear or direct trigger. It may include symptoms such as a loss of enjoyment, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness. Treatments for depression range from psychotherapy and medications to more intensive interventions like electroconvulsive therapy.
It is worth noting that the understanding of depression, its causes, and its mechanisms continues to evolve. Research indicates that biological processes like synaptic coupling and neurotransmission involving norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine are implicated in depression, suggesting that both environmental and genetic factors play a role in its pathology.