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Abstract:
Several shared symptoms are evident among the subjects described here. First of all, each subject complained of feelings of depression, consistently and frequently. In other words, in each case, the subject described him/herself as "being depressed." The detailed examination of the case notes kept by the counselors who treated these individuals indicates a more specific symptomology associated with their depression. On a more specific level, each of the subjects expressed feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, despair, and self-destruction. In at least two of the cases, self-destructive feelings were translated into potentially suicidal actions. In addition, each of the three subjects experienced pronounced mood swings. Alternating between periods of deep depression (associated with stagnant or regressive behavior) and periods of relative optimism when at least temporary progress in therapy was evident. During these apparent periods of improvement, the subjects often related major plans of action intended to improve their lot, including new jobs, furthering their education, withdrawing entirely from drug use, patching up marital and family disorder, etc. In each case before these major improvements could be initiated, the subjects would relapse into depressed states and their plans would dissolve like so many fantasies. These cyclical mood swings and their accompanying polar manifestations would seem, superficially, indicative of a type of manic-depressive illness. It should be noted, however, that at no time did any of the subjects undergo thorough psychological testing. Such testing is planned for Subject B, who remains in treatment at this time. Each subject complained of experiencing acute anxiety attacks during his periods of depression.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)