Clinical: Unipolar depression

Question 1

How do the DSM and the ICD identify unipolar depression?

Answer 1

2 weeks of symptoms such as low mood.

Question 2

What are the mood symptoms of depression?

Answer 2

-Depressed mood (sad, empty or hopeless)
-Loss of interest
Children with depression are often irritable whereas adults are sad.

Question 3

What are the bodily symptoms of depression?

Answer 3

-reduced energy levels which often lead to withdrawal from society.
-5% change in body weight in a month
-sleep patterns disrupted every day

Question 4

What are the cognitive symptoms of depression?

Answer 4

-Negative thoughts like blaming self
-Feeling guilty and unworthy

Question 5

What are the features of depression?

Answer 5

More common in women. Often comorbid with other illnesses.
3.3/100 have depression.

Question 6

What are the issues with diagnosing depression?

Answer 6

-Cultural differences
Many cultures don’t recognise depression as a disorder but this doesn’t mean depression does not exist.
+The ICD and DSM both have cultural sections which gives more detail on how differing cultures may identify symptoms.