Depression: As Viewed Within the Context of Need-Based Psychology‪.‬

Abstract: This article examines depression from an existential perspective, and is enriched by the author's own experiences as a victim of depression. A theory of Need-Based Psychology (which is an extension and modification of Maslow's theories) is introduced to explain that psychological needs are functional parts of the human psyche, and that need fulfillment is necessary to recover from depression and maintain mental health. An innovative form of psychotherapy, which the author has named Need-Replenishment and Environment-Enrichment Therapy, is proposed for providing solutions to depression. Having endured several serious, prolonged bouts of depression, lasting six to twelve months each, I have firsthand knowledge of its symptoms. Furthermore, for nearly two years, I have attended two to three meetings per week of a self- help organization called Emotions Anonymous, in which an eclectic variety of participants, including newcomers (some referred by psychotherapists and mental hospitals, some who find ut about the meetings on their own via the internet or other sources), frequently discuss their personal struggles with depression. I have also examined depression from a theoretical perspective, within the context of my own theory of Need-Based Psychology, which is presented in its entirety in my recently published book1. Who Are We? has been reviewed in the Annals of the American Psychotherapy Association 2 and Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy 3.