Characteristics of depression Flashcards
What is depression?
A mood disorder characterised by feelings of despondency and hopelessness and is often a lengthy disturbance of emotions that can occur in cycles, with symptoms coming and going over time
Generally, how long does a depressive episode last?
Between 2 and 6 months
What is the occurrence rate of depression?
20% of people will suffer from some form of depression, with women twice as vulnerable as men
When are women most vulnerable to depression an why?
During mid to late adolescence, because this is a time when many experience body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem and resistance to achieving
What is the suicide rate of people with depression?
10% of depressed people commit suicide, and 60% of all suicides are related to mood disorders
What is the average age of onset for depression?
The late twenties, although average age of onset has decreased over the past fifty years
What must be apparent to be diagnosed with depression?
At least five symptoms every day for two weeks with an impairment in general functioning
What is dysthymic depression and what is the difference between it and major depression?
Dysthymic depression is chronic depression; The duration, type and number of symptoms is different, e.g. dysthymic depression only needing three symptoms but for more than two months
What are the two main types of depression?
Unipolar and bipolar
But can also be divided into endogenous (related to internal biochemical and hormonal factors) and exogenous (reactive, related to stressful experiences) depression
What is unipolar depression also known as? Explain what unipolar depression is
Major depression; A form of depression occurring without mania characterised by clinical symptoms, usually occurring in cycles, with more severe versions including delusions (severe forms often do not respond well to antidepressants alone, responding better to antidepressants combined with antipsychotics)
25% of women will experience unipolar depression and 12% of men
What are the behavioural symptoms of unipolar depression?
- Loss of energy
- Social impairment
- Weight changes
- Poor personal hygiene
- Sleep pattern disturbance
What are the emotional symptoms of unipolar depression?
- Loss of enthusiasm
- Constant depressed mood
- Worthlessness
What are the cognitive symptoms of unipolar depression?
- Delusions; generally concerning guilt, punishment, personal inadequacy or disease
- Reduced concentration
- Thoughts of death and/or suicide
- Poor memory
How many people suffer from bipolar depression?
2% of the population, equally divided between the sexes
What do sufferers of bipolar depression experience?
Unipolar symptoms alongside bipolar symptoms
