The Characteristics of Depression

Question 1

How long must depressive symptoms persist before diagnosis?

Answer 1

At least 2 weeks

Question 2

What is Depression?

Answer 2

Persistent low mood and a loss of interest in activities that previously brought the individual pleasure

Question 3

What are 3 behavioural characteristics of depression?

Answer 3

• A disruption to sleeping or eating, whether that be an increase or decrease
• A change in activity levels, typically a reduction in them
• Aggression, which can be verbal or physical, and can be directed at the self as well as others, such as self-harm

Question 4

What are 3 emotional characteristics of depression?

Answer 4

• Low mood
• Anger, which may be directed at the self as well as others, such as self-harm
• Low Self-Esteem and Self-Worth

Question 5

What are 3 cognitive characteristics of depression?

Answer 5

• Poor Concentration
• Automatic Negative Thinking and a tendency to be pessimistic
• Absolutist Thinking, or a black-and-white worldview