The Catcher in the Rye -- Depression         

Use the link below to answer the questions:

Conquering Depression--Introduction

1. When is depression normal?

2. How can negative emotions such as anxiety and anger be helpful at times?

3. Does long term depression mean that a person has a weak character or lacks willpower?

4. What are the two kinds of mood disorders?

5. What is another name for bipolar disorders?

6. Does Holden show signs of depression or manic depressive illness, and why do you think so?

7. Is depression more or less intense than normal sadness?

8. Is depression shorter or longer lasting than normal sadness?

9. What normal functions can you perform with normal sadness but not with a mood disorder?

10. With what normal activities did Holden's mood disorder interfere?

Use the link below to fill in the letters.

Conquering Depression--What can be done?

1. Name 3 reasons that might explain why Holden did not seek treatment.
     a.
     b.
     c.

2. Name 3 actions Holden's family could take to help him.
     a.
     b.
     c.

Instructions: Write the numbers of the definitions of depression listed below that apply to Holden Caulfield. Next, choose any three of the definitions listed below, and for each one, write it on your paper and draw an illustration of it.

Definitions of depression on the Web:

1. a mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a despondent lack of activity
2. a long-term economic state characterized by unemployment and low prices and low levels of trade and investment
3. natural depression: a sunken or depressed geological formation
4. sad feelings of gloom and inadequacy
5. a period during the 1930s when there was a worldwide economic depression and mass unemployment
6. low: an air mass of lower pressure; often brings precipitation; "a low moved in over night bringing sleet and snow"
7. depressive disorder: a state of depression and anhedonia so severe as to require clinical intervention
8. a concavity in a surface produced by pressing; "he left the impression of his fingers in the soft mud"
9. angular distance below the horizon (especially of a celestial object)
10. pushing down; "depression of the space bar on the typewriter"

The numbers of the definitions that apply to Holden Caulfield:

The three definitions that I have chosen to copy and illustrate:

Works Cited assignment.
Works Cited page

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