Tutorial 13 - Mental health (A)

Question 1

What are the typical symptoms of depression?

Answer 1

• SIGCAPS
• S - Sleep problems
• I - loss of Interest.
• G - Guilt
• C - Concentration
• A - Apetite
• P - Psychomotor retardation
• S - Suicide
• Many other symptoms i.e., social isolation, not doing hobbies.

Question 2

What is the difference between low mood and depression?

Answer 2

• Low mood and depression can present similar, however in low mood after talking, more sleep etc the feelings often drift off.
• Depression is where the symptoms persist over 2 weeks.

Question 3

Which screening test is available for depression?

Answer 3

• PHQ9
• 9 questions which access several symptoms and how often you have them.
• The score (/27) indicates the likelihood of depression and the severity.

Question 4

How is depression treated?

Answer 4

• CBT
• Group exercise
• Medication - SSRI i.e., sertraline
• Try not to introduce medication straight away - unless this is patients preference.
• Advice patient can talk 4 weeks to see effects of medication and it must be taken for 6 months to reduce risk of relapse.

Question 4

How is depression treated?

Answer 4

• CBT
• Group exercise
• Medication - SSRI i.e., sertraline
• Try not to introduce medication straight away - unless this is patients preference.
• Advice patient can talk 4 weeks to see effects of medication and it must be taken for 6 months to reduce risk of relapse.