Depression Flashcards
(21 cards)
What proportion of people experience an episode of depression in their lifetime?
Over 15 out of every 100 people experience an episode of depression.
Why might the true number of individuals affected by depression be higher than statistics suggest?
Many cases go undiagnosed because individuals do not seek help.
Are men or women more likely to be diagnosed with depression?
Women are diagnosed more frequently, but this may be because they are more likely to seek medical assistance.
What is the lifetime risk of depression for men and women?
1 in 10 for men and 1 in 4 for women.
What percentage of depression cases go undiagnosed?
Up to 70% of cases are missed.
What are the three core symptoms of depression?
Low mood (dysthymia), loss of interest or enjoyment (anhedonia), and fatigue or reduced energy (anergia).
Name at least four additional symptoms of depression.
Poor motivation, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, poor concentration, increased irritability.
What are some physical symptoms of depression?
Sleep disturbances, changes in appetite and weight, reduced libido, and psychomotor agitation.
What steps are involved in diagnosing depression?
Full psychiatric and medical history, screen for comorbid conditions, grading of severity, and risk/insight assessment.
What are some potential causes of depression?
Life events, genetic predisposition, social adversity, hormonal changes, physical illnesses, and substance abuse.
What is the underlying cause of mood disorders like depression?
Abnormalities in neurotransmitter function.
What are the different categories of depression?
Mild, moderate, severe, depression with psychotic features, post-natal depression, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
What is seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?
A form of depression linked to seasonal changes, typically occurring in winter.
What are the two possible courses of depression?
It can be a singular episode with full recovery or a relapsing/remitting condition requiring long-term management.
What are the biological treatments for depression?
Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs - fluoxetine) and, in severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
What psychological treatment has the strongest evidence for effectiveness?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
What are some other treatment options for depression?
Mindfulness, counseling, self-help strategies, and social support services.
Who treats most individuals with depression?
General practitioners (GPs), with around 10% referred to psychiatrists.
How long does recovery take for hospitalized severe depression cases?
Most recover within five months to a year.
When is depression considered chronic?
If it persists for more than two years.
What percentage of individuals diagnosed with depression experience more than one episode?
85%.
