Depression

Question 1

What are the classifications of depression?

Answer 1

• Subthreshold depression - fewer than five symptoms
• Mild depression - +5 sx but only minor functional impairment
• Moderate depression - between mild and severe sx and impairment
• Severe depression - most sx and markedly interfering with functioning. Can be with/without psychotic sx

Question 2

What are the symptoms of depression?

Answer 2

• lack of concentrate
• Beliefs of low self-worth/guilt
• Hopeless about future
• recurrent thoughts of death/suicidal ideation
• Significant changes in appetite/weight
• Reduced energy/fatigue
• psychomotor agitation

Question 3

What is the pathophysiology of depression?

Answer 3

• NA and 5HT are dysregulated in brain
• NA, dopamine, serotonin (5HT) are depleted

Question 4

Why is monoamine used as a therapy for depression?

Answer 4

• inhibiting reuptake of serotonin and NA improves mood
• monoamine oxidase metabolises NA and serotonin
• therefore inhibition of monoamine oxidase will cause antidepressant effect
  more 5HT and NA in body

Question 6

What are the risk factors for depression?

Answer 6

• female
• older age
• family history/personal hx mental health
• postpartum
• chronic physical conditions