DEPRESSION Flashcards
depression
an extended experience of negative emotions, thoughts, behavior, and functioning for at least two weeks
- one of the most common health disorders
biological level
- change in brain chemistry
- reduced levels of serotonin (feeling content)
- common amongst families (genetics)
- overuse of substances (drugs + alc) is associated with higher vulnerability to depression
biological level symptoms
headaches
increase or decrease in appetite
increased daytime fatigue (mental + physical)
digestion issues
basic process level
- difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- memory is often poorer than normal
- access negative thoughts + emotions more readily
basic process level symptoms
- increase feelings of sadness
- low self-esteem
- pessimistic thinking styles
- thoughts of suicide or self-harm in serious cases
person level
personality types
- less flexibility
- strongly emotional
- worriers
women more vulnerable: adolescents, childbirth, menopause
men more vulnerable: retirement, unemployment, separation from a partner
person level symptoms
- loss of pleasurable activities
- deflated sense of self-importance
- poor judgment
- impulsivity
socio-cultural level
- people w/o supportive networks more vulnerable
- some cultures, depression is considered ‘shameful’
socio-cultural level symptoms
- diminished involvement with others
- strained relationships with family + friends
- loss of social skills
- maladaptive behavior in social settings
treatments
BIOLOGICAL
anti-depressant medication
- several different types
- most common: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Electric shock therapy
- only used when absolutely necessary
- electric currents change brain activity reducing depressive symptoms
treatments
BASIC PROCESSES
cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- recognizes how the way we think and behave affects the way we feel
- professional therapist
interpersonal therapy (IPT)
- focuses on personal relationships
- helps identify patterns of relationships which can then improve relationships and reduce symptoms of depression
treatments
PERSON
assertiveness training
- depression can develop due to a lack of confidence
- aims to help people become more assertive
- role-playing exercises conducted with ‘I’ statements
- very ethical
treatments
SOCIO-CULTURAL
support groups
- hearing and talking to others promotes feelings of belonging and not feeling alone
- both online or in-person
