Topics 20-21 (brain chemistry)

Question 1

What is the difference between Clinical neuroscience and Psychiatry?

Answer 1

Clinical neuroscience looks at the disorders of the nervous system.
Psychiatry looks at the disorders of the mind.

Question 2

What is Chemical imbalance (in the brain)?

Answer 2

impairment in the brain’s neurotransmitter system that can be linked to mood disorders

Question 3

How can we explain the concept “Sedentary lifestyle”?

Answer 3

our bodies spend most of the time sitting

Question 4

What is the definition of Neurotransmitters?

Also, give 3 examples.

Answer 4

the chemicals which allow the transmission of signals from one neuron to the next across synapses. Examples: dopamine, glutamine and serotonin

Question 5

What is the definition of Clinical trials?

Answer 5

experiments or observations done in clinical research

Question 6

What is the definition of Clinical depression?

Answer 6

a mental disorder characterized by at least two weeks of low mood that is present across most situations

Question 7

Give 3 examples of Cognitive functions

Answer 7

1. memory
2. attention
3. reasoning

Question 8

What are 3 benefits of exercise?

Answer 8

1. antidepressant
2. enhanced cognitive function
3. encourages growth of new brain cells

Question 9

List 5 side-effects of Psychiatric drugs

Answer 9

1. weight loss
2. weigh gain
3. sedation
4. emotional blunting
5. loss of libido

Question 10

Sunlight deprivation may cause

two

Answer 10

1. seasonal affective disorder

2. decrease in serotonin-based signaling

Question 11

Physical inactivity takes a toll on our

two

Answer 11

1. hearts => cardiovascular disease

2. brains => depression

Question 12

Give 3 treatment options for depression

Answer 12

1. Medication (psychiatric drugs)
2. Exposure to simulated sunlight
3. Exercise (brisk walking)

Question 13

Describe 3 methods to prevent depression

Answer 13

1. Exercise (brisk walking) => less sitting
2. Healthy diet => less sugar
3. Sociable (face time with loved ones) => less rumination

Question 14

How much sugar does an average American consume a day?

Answer 14

22 teaspoons of sugar per day