Depression (intro)

Question 1

What is the definition of depression?

Answer 1

A mood disorder
DSM-V distinguishes between major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder, which is longer term and/or recurring

Question 2

What are the emotional characteristics of depression?

Answer 2

• sadness, feeling empty
• feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and/or low self-esteem
• loss of interest and pleasure in usual hobbies/activities, associated with feelings of despair and lack of control
• anger (towards others or to oneself)

Question 2

What does a formal diagnosis of ‘major depressive disorder’ require?

Answer 2

At least 5 symptoms
Either sadness or loss of interest and pleasure in normal activities

Question 3

What are the behavioural characteristics of depression?

Answer 3

Shift in activity level:
1. reduced energy - sense of tiredness
2. increasingly agitated state - state of restlessness
3. appetite affected; either reduced or eating more than usual

Question 4

What are the cognitive characteristics of depression?

Answer 4

• negative view of the world, generally pessimistic
• negative self-concept, guilt, sense of worthlessness
• generally, such thoughts are irrational and do not accurately reflect reality