Depression Project -John Potenza

SpongeBob SquarePants Depression Blockbuster Project -John Potenza

1. Squidward’s Depression In By John Potenza

2. Psychology Basis

3. Major (Unipolar) Depression Disorder Unipolar Depression is defined as a severe depression lasting over two weeks. A depression is “a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest” (Mayo Clinic).

4. Symptoms Of Major Depression Disorder Symptoms of this disorder include: Lack of self confidence Sadness Loss of interest Lack of motivation Slowness in activity Apathy (lack of emotion) General discontent Suicidal thoughts

5. Media

6. Characters Spongebob and Squidward are neighbors, as well as co-workers at a restaurant called the Krusty Krab. Spongebob is always happy and positive, which often annoys Squidward. Spongebob also often accidentally inconveniences Squidward almost every episode. Squidward Spongebob

7. Connection

8. Connection One day at work, Spongebob shows up with an album featuring his happiest memories. Spongebob asks Squidward what his happiest memory is, and Squidward expresses that he doesn't have one. Spongebob then becomes determined to give Squidward a happiest memory.

9. Connection Spongebob takes Squidward to a number of places that Squidward’s interested in: A musical, an art museum, and even a hot air balloon ride. However, something negative happens at all of these events. Squidward focuses on those and becomes more sad, rather than being optimistic.

10. Connection After all of these events fail to make Squidward happy, he loses all motivation and stays isolated in his house. Two weeks later, Spongebob gets concerned and checks on him. Squidward’s house is incredibly messy, and Squidward himself looks stressed and has stubble, indicating that he hasn't taken much care of himself. He then dismisses Spongebob, because he wants to be alone.

11. Connection/ Validity Squidwards’ extended period of lacking motivation, general sadness, and negativity towards everything makes it apparent that he has Major Depression Disorder. Squidward also says multiple dark quotes throughout the episode, such as “I can’t seem to get happy”, “Hello misery, I’m home” and even “Wake me when I’m dead”. These quotes make it very apparent that Squidward is not mentally healthy.

12. My Take The writers definitely understand what Major Depression Disorder is, since it’s accurately shown through the expression of its symptoms with Squidward. They overall did a good job with portraying depression in Squidward.

13. Thank You!

14. References Mayo Clinic Depression Definition: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007 “Are You Happy Now?” Spongebob Episode: https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=spongebob+are+you+happy+now+episode&view=detail&mid=BD39D182B3BEEED3DFF5BD39D182B3BEEED3DFF5&FORM=VIRE