Depression, Self-Harm & Suicide Flashcards
What are the 3 types of depression?
- bipolar (manic) depression
- unipolar depression
- dysthymia
What is bipolar depression?
What characterises it?
- Excessive elation, irritability, talkativeness
- inflated self-esteem
This is followed by a period of depression
What characterises unipolar depression?
There is no mania
What is dysthymia?
A persistent low grade mood
What is the difference between depression and not being happy?
Everyone goes through periods of not being happy - a reason can usually be identified
Depression is an illness and the sufferer has relatively little control over it
What are the 5 questions that should be used in diagnosing depression?
Is the depression:
- an illness or normal unhappiness?
- secondary to a physical illness or alcohol/drugs?
- presenting with physical symptoms?
- co-occurring with anxiety?
- placing person at risk of suicide?
What are the 3 cores features of depression?
- pervasive low mood
- anhedonia (loss of interest and enjoyment)
- reduced energy and diminished activity
What is meant by a pervasive low mood?
A constant low mood that does not recede
What are examples of anhedonia?
People losing interest in things that they used to enjoy
Examples of behaviours include people stopping going out and engaging in social activities
What are the 2 main questions that can diagnose 85-90% of people with depression?
- Have you been low in spirits?
2. Have you been able to enjoy the things you usually enjoy? (anhedonia)
What is important to consider when asking screening questions for depression?
Context and history
Someone may answer yes to both questions, but may have had a recent bereavement in the family
What is meant by the biological basis for depression?
Depression is associated with natural biological change
e.g. childbirth, menstrual cycle
What are drug therapies used for depression?
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- SSRIs
What are the 3 physical treatments for depression?
- drug therapy
- physical activity/exercise
- electro-convulsive therapy (ECT)
When is physical activity/exercise used as treatment for depression and why?
Mild depression
It is as effective as antidepressants or CBT