Depressive and Cognitive Disorders - Discussion

Discussions are fundamental to shared learning, so please be sure to participate early and often! After you have completed the Reading, and without reviewing your classmate's responses, post your initial response to the following Discussion. Your post should be at least 400-450 words in length and should extend the discussion of the group supported by your course materials and/or other appropriate resources. After you have submitted your initial post, review some of your classmate's posts and respond to at least two of your classmates, your responses to others should be at least 100-150 words in length and substantive. Refer to your Discussion Board Rubric in your Syllabus for specific grading explanation.

Topics - The Science of Happiness

To prepare for this week's Discussion, review the following videos in addition to this week's assigned Reading.

Gilbert, D. (2004). Dan Gilbert: The surprising science of happiness. Retrieved fromhttp://www.ted.com/talks/dan_gilbert_asks_why_are_we_happy.html

The science of happiness is relatively new. In the past, researchers have focused on studying negative mood or thoughts and its relation to mood disorders, but a new interest has influenced researchers to study the effects of happiness on mental health. Being happy and positive can act as a protective barrier to mental illness.

People who are happy tend to have better relationships, careers, and physical and mental health than unhappy people. People are constantly pursuing happiness, but they also equate happiness to different things that may not bring ultimate lifelong happiness. For instance, some people equate happiness to money or material possessions; however, some people who win the lottery are no happier after winning. For this Assignment, you will be discussing how one's thinking can influence his or her happiness.

Proceed with this week's Discussion by addressing the following about a relationship between happiness and mood or mental illness:

1. Explain in your own words what happiness is.

2. According to studies and/or the textbook, explain how thinking is believed to influence one's level of happiness as well as the development of depression and maintaining of its symptoms?