Depressive State Stemming from Anxiety: Origins, Symptoms, Triggers, and Therapies
In the 1940s, psychoanalyst René Spitz first formulated the theory of anaclitic depression, a type of depression linked with separation from a caregiver or loved one. This condition, while not a formal diagnosis recognised in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR), has been the subject of extensive research and understanding over the years.
Anaclitic depression was first observed in infants by Spitz, who noticed halted development and crying in infants away from a loving mother figure in a nursery. Symptoms in infants include stunted development, refusal to engage with the environment, crying, and weight loss. In adults, symptoms can be more complex and include an intense desire to be taken care of and loved, fear of abandonment, loneliness, helplessness, fear of loss, depressed mood, high levels of anxiety, frequent crying, physical aches and pains, and dependent personality traits.
Adults with anaclitic depression can become emotionally dysregulated when away from someone they rely on. This emotional instability can lead to feelings of unloved and like nobody cares about them. Attachment styles can change over time, and though fears of abandonment can be overwhelming, many people can learn ways to cope with attachment disruptions.
Treatment for anaclitic depression often involves therapy, specifically mentalization techniques and learning self-regulation concepts. Psychologist Sidney Blatt later expanded Spitz's work, introducing the "two configurations approach" of depression. This approach includes the introjective (self-critical) and anaclitic (dependent) experiences of depression.
For those experiencing anaclitic depression, it may be beneficial to seek the help of a mental health professional. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore feelings and learn healthier ways to form attachments with others. For more information about anaclitic depression, it can be worth reading the book "Experiences of Depression: Theoretical, Clinical, and Research Perspectives" by Sidney J. Blatt.
It's important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling with anaclitic depression, know that you are not alone and help is available.
