lecture 12 - depression

Question 1

What are the characteristics of depression compared to sadness?

Answer 1

feelings of helplessness/hopelessness, pattern of physiological and psychological symptoms, change to core beliefs

Question 2

How does depression differ to grief?

Answer 2

Grief is accompanied by positive memories while depression is persistently low mood, grief does not include low self-esteem, while depressed people are often self critical.

Question 3

What are the 2 subtypes of mood disorders in the DSM-5?

Answer 3

Depressive disorders, bipolar & related disorders

Question 4

What is the DSM-5 criteria for Major Depressive Disorder?

Answer 4

1.) Depressed mood and/or anhedonia (loss of interest in pleasurable things)
2.) At least 5 of:
feeling worthless/guilt, suicidal thoughts/attempts, fatigue/energy loss, altered sleep patterns, cahnges in weight/appetite, poor concentration/decision making, psychomotor retardation/agitation
3.) functional impairment
4.) not due to medical condition/medication
Symptoms must be present for at least 2 weeks

Question 5

What screening of present symptoms should be done for suspected depression?

Answer 5

frequency, intensity, duration and impact of symptoms. Any suicidal ideation/intention/plan/attempt

Question 6

What are the background screening questions for depression?

Answer 6

medication, substance use, medical conditions, cultural background, family history, previous interventions

Question 7

What are the 2 key treatment approaches for depression?

Answer 7

Pharmacotherapy (medication), psychotherapy (talk therapy)