Depressive Disorders

Question 1

MMD (Major Depressive Disorder)

Answer 1

-with and without psychotic features
-peripartum onset
-seasonal pattern

–characterized by depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
–present for 2 wk period
–5 or more symptoms

Question 2

MMD: Signs & Symptoms

Answer 2

fatigue or loss of energy
sleep disturbances
changes in appetite
feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
inability to think or concentrate
changes in physical activity
persistent thoughts of death and suicide

Question 3

MMD: Peripartum Onset

Answer 3

-onset of 4 wks after delivery
-symptoms worse during the evenings
-usually mother expresses a great deal of concerns about the health of the baby and the inability to care for the baby as well

Question 4

MMD: Postpartum Psychosis

Answer 4

-very severe and debilitating
-can have acute onset after the delivery of the baby
-added feature: loss of contact w/ reality - hallucinations, poor insight, poor judgment
-requires tx immediately
-if woman had serious hx of mental illness then they are at a higher risk for postpartum depression or psychosis

Question 5

MMD: Seasonal Pattern

Answer 5

-other names: seasonal affective disorder or winter depression
-fall/winter onset (happens during Oct, Nov, Dec)
-increase sleep, carbohydrate cravings

Major tx: light therapy - shines a light onto your face for at least 30-45 minutes w/ equal dosing in the AM and PM.
-will inhibit melatonin secretion
SE: HA and jittery