A CASE STUDY OF MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER IN A UNIVERSITY STUDENT: A BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental health disorders among young adults and university students. It is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and impaired functioning. This case study presents a 20-year-old male university student who developed severe depressive symptoms following repeated academic failures, family pressure, and interpersonal conflict. Psychological assessment included a Clinical Interview, Mental Status Examination (MSE), Subjective Rating Scale, Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Human Figure Drawing (HFD), Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), and Thematic Apperception Test (TAT). The findings indicated severe depression with negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal. The client fulfilled DSM-5-TR criteria for Major Depressive Disorder, Severe (F32.2). A cognitive-behavioral treatment plan combined with supportive therapy, psychoeducation, mindfulness, and coping skills resulted in improvement in mood, motivation, and daily functioning.