Lecture 15

Question 1

What is the annual prevalence of major depressive episodes (MDE) in Canada?

Answer 1

4.7% of Canadians aged 15+ experience MDE annually​

Question 2

What are the most common functional impairments associated with MDD?

Answer 2

Depressed mood, loss of interest (anhedonia), impaired concentration, and self-blame​

Question 3

What chronic medical conditions are commonly associated with MDD?

Answer 3

Heart disease, arthritis, asthma, hypertension, chronic pulmonary disease, and migraines

Question 4

According to DSM-5-TR, how many symptoms must be present to diagnose MDD, and for how long?

Answer 4

At least 5 symptoms must be present for at least 2 weeks​

Question 5

Name two core symptoms required for a diagnosis of MDD.

Answer 5

Depressed mood and loss of interest or pleasure (anhedonia)​

Question 6

What is the mnemonic used to remember the diagnostic criteria for MDD?

Answer 6

SADIFACES: Sleep changes, Appetite changes, Depressed mood, Interest loss, Fatigue, Agitation/retardation, Concentration issues, Esteem (worthlessness), Suicide​

Question 7

What distinguishes grief from a major depressive episode (MDE)?

Answer 7

In grief, the predominant affect is emptiness and loss, while in MDE, it is persistent depressed mood and an inability to anticipate happiness

Question 8

Name three non-modifiable risk factors for MDD.

Answer 8

Personal or family history of MDE, gender (higher in AFAB individuals), and age (peaks in the 20s

Question 9

What two questions are asked in the PHQ-2 screening tool for MDD?

Answer 9

1. Little interest or pleasure in doing things?
2. Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless?​

Question 10

What is measurement-based care in the context of MDD?

Answer 10

It refers to the systematic use of validated rating scales (e.g., PHQ-9, HAM-D) to monitor outcomes and support clinical decision-making​

Question 11

What exclusions must be considered when diagnosing MDD according to DSM-5-TR?

Answer 11

Symptoms should not be better explained by schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, or other psychotic disorders, and there should be no history of a manic or hypomanic episode​

Question 12

How do hormonal changes contribute to the risk of MDD?

Answer 12

Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during the peripartum period or menopause, are linked to an increased risk of MDD​

Question 13

Why is it important to rule out medical conditions before diagnosing MDD?

Answer 13

Some medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism or anemia, can mimic or cause depressive symptoms, so they must be excluded or treated first​