There are a variety of psychotherapy methods to treat depression including antidepressants, therapy, or hospitalization (Mental Health America). Depending on risk factors, caregivers choose the best option for the individual in their circumstance. A large amount of research has shown that medication is one of the most effective methods of treatment, although the individual varies. It is important for friends and families of the victim to recognize the circumstances and be there for their loved one, as depression is not something you can just “get over” (Davis). In the novel The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, we see how the lack of a support unit and treatment affects the individual with depression, in this case, high school dropout, Holden Caulfield.
Holden Caulfield became victim of the environmental stress of life. His brother has passed away, school doesn’t seem to be an option, and his self identity leads to confusion. His lack of effort to improve and moral tendencies portray his own depression. Depression affects everyone different. For some, it causes them to be solitary while for others, they may try to change themselves in an unhealthy way. Holden is a liar. He lies to cover up his own actions, and he quickly …show more content…
Throughout his journey I noticed symptoms of substance abuse, pathological lying, and even slight PTSD. Holden fulfills several of the symptoms of depression including having a difficulty making decisions, irresponsible behavior, and rebellious behavior, feelings of hopelessness, substance abuse, and withdrawal from friends. But along the way, Holden dealt with substance abuse, which can be caused and lead to a mental illness. For obvious reasons, his use of substances affects his depression and social life. Holden also is forward with the fact that he is a pathological liar. Many think that lying is a decision one makes as a reaction to a situation, but there is a mental illness involving lying. Pathological lying means that the victim does not realize that they are lying, but it is rather a part of them and comes naturally. This is seen throughout the novel and is a common theme. Holden seems to also have slight Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as an effect of the death of his brother. This affects his experiences in the busy society of New York City, and is also the base of his depression. These mental illnesses support the reasoning behind his depression diagnosis and help us understand what is going on in the world of Holden (WebMD). Holden faces many obstacles throughout his journey. Mental illness affects every aspect of a teenager’s life. These obstacles have brought up