New Take on Depression

Perhaps depression is an evolved adaptation that actually promotes our survival and reproduction. Depression could be a way of luring support.

The concept that "depression is not simply a disease to be eliminated, but a way of eliciting support from family and friends" was derived from evolutionary psychology, and is beginning to influence psychotherapy. Some evolutionary psychologists believe that depression, and suicide attempts are rational bargaining tactics to manipulate others to provide support and to attract more attention. Scientists believe that depression can be cured without the use of drugs, but through "therapeutic lifestyle change", which uses behavioral remedies like getting enough sleep, and increasing social interaction and a healthier diet. Mental disorders could also be caused by accumulating genetic mutations which are harmful. This explains why a relative with a mental disorder increases your chances as well.