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Through an Adlerian lens, major depressive disorder (MDD) can be seen as emerging when individuals lose a sense of purpose, connection, and confidence in themselves. The DSM-5-TR describes MDD as involving a depressive episode lasting at least two weeks, marked by either a persistently low mood or a significant loss of interest or pleasure, along with additional symptoms such as changes in sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, and thoughts of death or suicide (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). Adler emphasized that individuals are motivated by feelings of inferiority and a desire to overcome them, noting that “it is the feeling of inferiority, inadequacy, insecurity, which determines the goal of an individual’s existence” (Cervone & Pervin, 2023). In cases of MDD, when the striving becomes discouraged, it could lead individuals to internalize a sense of inadequacy that strongly aligns with depressive symptoms.

In understanding structure, Adlerian theory highlights lifestyle as the framework through which individuals interpret themselves and their experiences. This lifestyle forms early in development and represents stable patterns of belief, goals, and perceptions shaped by efforts to manage feelings of inferiority. Individuals with MDD may develop maladaptive beliefs that align with symptoms such as worthlessness and excessive guilt, as their worldview becomes shaped by discouragement and negative self-evaluations (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). Over time, these patterns/beliefs may become ingrained, maintaining negative self-perception and contributing to ongoing depressive symptoms. Within Adlerian theory, the processes and dynamics of depression are characterized by discouragement and a decline in social interest. Individuals are motivated to overcome feelings of inferiority, but when that is unsuccessful, they may withdraw and become disappointed, leading to a diminished sense of purpose. This pattern of ineffective compensation can contribute to feelings of helplessness and low motivation, which are commonly seen in MDD (American Psychiatric Association, 2022).

From an Adlerian perspective, growth and development are shaped by early childhood experiences and efforts to overcome feelings of inferiority. When individuals do not have support or feel a sense of belonging while they are developing, they may adopt maladaptive goals that could increase their chances of depressive symptoms. In terms of psychopathology, Adler viewed depression as a state of discouragement in which individuals lose confidence in their ability to achieve significance and connection (Cervone & Pervin, 2023). Regarding therapeutic change, Adlerian therapy focuses on fostering motivation, perception, and social interest. Through therapeutic techniques focused on increasing encouragement and helping individuals develop more adaptive ways of striving for significance, clients can begin to replace maladaptive beliefs with more constructive perspectives, ultimately improving functioning and reducing depressive symptoms (Cervone & Pervin, 2023).