Behavioural, emotional and cognitive characteristics of DEPRESSION

Question 1

Depression

Answer 1

A mood disorder characterised by sad depressed mood - other symptoms include loss of interest/pleasure in activities, low energy levels, -ve self-concept and feelings of worthlessness.

Question 2

what is a key criteria that must be met to be diagnosed with depression?

Answer 2

The symptoms must cause significant distress or impairment in general functioning for more than 2 weeks.

Question 3

What are the two emotional characteristics of depression?

Answer 3

Sad, depressed mood and anger

Question 4

What does ‘sad, depressed mood’ refer to, in terms of depression?

Answer 4

The feeling of sadness which is commonly felt when describing depression often combined with emptiness, worthlessness, hopelessness and low self-esteem.

Question 5

What does anger refer to, in terms of depression?

Answer 5

Negative emotions that can be shown in the form of anger, which can be towards oneself (self harm) it towards others.

Question 6

What are the 2 cognitive characteristics for depression?

Answer 6

Negative schema and poor concentration.

Question 7

What does negative schema refer to, in terms of depression?

Answer 7

Negative thoughts and expectations that sufferers hold about their lives, relationships and the world in general - these expectations can turn into a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Question 8

What does poor concentration refer to, in terms of depression?

Answer 8

Sufferers find it difficult to stick to a task or make decisions which interferes with work and the ability to communicate.

Question 9

What are the 2 behavioural characteristics of depression?

Answer 9

Disruption of sleep + eating and activity levels.

Question 10

What does ‘disruption of sleep and eating’ refer to, in terms of depression?

Answer 10

Insomnia and hypersomnia (increased need for sleep) are common and appetite can also increase or decrease (resulting in weight loss or gain).

Question 11

What does ‘activity levels’ refer to , in terms of depression?

Answer 11

Disruption in activity levels - low energy levels can lead to withdrawal from work, social lives or even struggling to get out of bed. Some sufferers experience high levels of energy resulting in agitation and restlessness.