Depression Flashcards
How long do symptoms of low mood, loss of interest in usual activities and tiredness have to have been going on for for a diagnosis of depression to be made?
2 weeks of these three main symptoms and at least two other of the symptoms to make a definite diagnosis (ICD 10 criteria)
What are the three core symptoms of depression?
- Low mood
- Anhedonia (no pleasure out of activities)
- Anergia
What are the 7 non core symptoms of depression?
Loss of confidence/self esteem Self-reproach/excessive guilt Recurrent thoughts death, suicide, suicidal behaviour Reduced concentration Change psychomotor activity Sleep disturbance Change appetite
A patient has low mood, low energy levels, bad sleep and poor concentration. He hasn’t had to take any time of work. Is his depression mild, moderate or severe?
Mild (Definition = 2 core symptoms + 2 others to total a minimum of 4)
A patient has low mood, low energy levels, bad sleep and poor concentration. He is also eating less and feels guilty that he is not being there for his family as he always feels tired. He has had to take some days off work because he can’t face talking to people. Is his depression mild, moderate or severe?
Moderate (2 core + others to total of 6 with difficulty continuing most activities.
A patient has low mood, low energy levels and no interest in things he used to enjoy. He has bad sleep and poor concentration. He is also eating less and feels guilty that he is not being there for his family as he always feels tired. He has hoped for death and is here today because he was considering suicide. He has quit work because he can’t face talking to people. Is his depression mild, moderate or severe?
Severe. £ core symptoms + others to total of 8. His symptoms are severe and distressing
What are the components of the mental state examination?
Appearance Behaviour Speech Mood Affect Thoughts Perceptions Cognitive function Insight
