The Problem of Depressive States in the Conceptual Framework of Clinical Psychology

The article highlights the problem of defining and classifying depressive states in the conceptual apparatus of clinical psychology. The relevance of the topic is emphasized in connection with the high prevalence of depressive disorders in modern society and the need to unify terminology for effective interdisciplinary communication between psychologists and medical professionals. The importance of clarifying definitions to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of psychocorrectional interventions is substantiated. An analysis of the relationship between the concepts of “mental state” and “experience” is carried out, their conceptual difference and interconnection are determined, which is essential for understanding the psychological nature of depressive phenomena. The aim of the study is to theoretically clarify the meaning of the concept of “depressive state” based on a generalization of modern approaches and international diagnostic standards. Methods included systematization, comparative analysis, and conceptual modeling. The leading theoretical models for explaining depressive states (psychoanalytic, cognitive, humanistic-existential, biological, biopsychosocial) are systematized and modern classifications (ICD-11, DSM-5-TR) are characterized. Particular attention is paid to psychogenic depression and the peculiarities of its clinical typology. The study proposes a definition of a depressive state as an integrative phenomenon that reflects the dynamics of psychoemotional processes in norm and pathology. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of using the results in the training of specialists, psychodiagnostics, and the prevention of depressive disorders.