Depression is one of the most common mental disorders globally, affecting millions of people of all ages, genders, and social statuses. Although there are many theories about its causes, one intriguing concept that has gained attention in psychological literature is that depression may be a form of unexpressed aggression. This idea emphasizes the importance of internal conflicts and repressed emotions in the development of depression. Let’s explore what this theory means and how it can help us understand depression more deeply.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental disorder characterized by a prolonged state of low mood, loss of interest in life, decreased energy, and various physical and cognitive symptoms. People suffering from depression may experience feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt, and difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
Aggression and Depression: The Connection Between Them
Aggression is typically seen as the active expression of negative emotions, such as anger or frustration, directed towards another person or situation. Depression, on the other hand, is often associated with passivity, lack of energy, and a sense of helplessness. However, some psychologists, like Sigmund Freud and his followers, argue that depression can be an internal form of aggression directed at oneself.
How Does Aggression Become Depression?
The idea that depression is unexpressed aggression is based on the concept that when a person cannot or does not know how to express their negative emotions outwardly, these emotions are turned inward. This process can be unconscious, and the person might not even realize they are harboring aggression.
For example, in situations where a person feels injustice or anger but cannot express their feelings due to fear of consequences, social pressure, or internal limitations, this energy may be suppressed and transformed into depressive symptoms. As a result, aggression that should have been directed outward becomes self-directed, manifesting as self-criticism, feelings of guilt, and low self-esteem.
Internal Conflicts and Depression
Internal conflicts arising from the inability to express aggression can trigger the development of depression. For example, a person may feel anger towards their boss but, instead of standing up for their rights, suppresses their emotions due to fear of losing their job. Over time, this repressed anger can evolve into feelings of hopelessness and despair.
A similar scenario can occur in personal relationships, where a person cannot openly express their feelings or needs due to fear of rejection or misunderstanding. In such cases, aggression that cannot be expressed turns into depressive symptoms such as anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, and isolation.
How to Recognize Hidden Aggression in Depression?
Identifying hidden aggression in depression is not always easy, as these emotions are often masked by other symptoms. Here are some signs that may indicate the presence of unexpressed aggression:
Self-Criticism and Feelings of Guilt: A person who harshly criticizes themselves or constantly feels guilty may actually harbor repressed anger or irritation that cannot be expressed.
Passivity and Lack of Motivation: If a person feels they lack the strength or energy to act, this could result from repressed aggression that consumes a lot of emotional energy.
Somatic Symptoms: Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, or stomach disorders may be manifestations of repressed aggression finding an outlet through the body.
How to Work with Unexpressed Aggression in Depression?
Understanding that depression may be a form of unexpressed aggression opens new possibilities for therapeutic work. Here are some approaches that can help:
Emotion Awareness Therapy: Working with a therapist can help a person become aware of their repressed emotions, including aggression, and learn to express them in a healthy way.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help a person identify negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to depression and learn to replace them with healthier alternatives.
Gestalt therapy: It can help you first become aware of your emotions and feelings, and then express them. This allows for a better understanding of your needs and how to fulfill them.
Developing Assertiveness Skills: Learning to express one’s feelings and needs directly and constructively can help avoid the buildup of aggression and reduce the risk of developing depression.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help release accumulated energy and reduce stress levels.
Depression as unexpressed aggression is an important concept that helps broaden the understanding of the nature of this mental disorder. Recognizing and working with repressed emotions, such as aggression, can be key elements in the process of treating depression. Seeking professional help and developing healthy ways of expressing emotions can help improve emotional well-being and overall quality of life.