Depression Flashcards
(22 cards)
What are the core features that characterise depression?
Absence of positive affect (loss of interest/enjoyment), low mood, and emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioural symptoms.
What is considered chronic depression?
Symptoms persisting for ≥2 years, meeting full or subthreshold diagnostic criteria, or persistent low mood.
Name 5 common symptoms of depression.
Disturbed sleep, appetite changes, fatigue, poor concentration, suicidal ideation.
What should all patients with depression be assessed for?
Suicide risk, comorbid conditions, and relevant risk factors.
Name 3 lifestyle changes that help with depression.
Regular physical activity, healthy diet, good sleep hygiene.
What should be discussed in the initial management plan?
Sources of support, shared treatment decisions, treatment options (e.g., CBT, self-help, antidepressants).
What is the review timeline after starting antidepressants?
2 weeks usually; 1 week if high suicide risk or aged 18–25.
What should be checked during depression follow-up?
Symptom response, side effects, adherence, relapse risk, suicidal ideation.
How long is antidepressant treatment continued after remission?
≥6 months (12 months in elderly).
Which class of antidepressants is best tolerated and safer in overdose?
SSRIs.
Name two side effects common with SSRIs.
Nausea and sexual dysfunction.
What heart-related risk is associated with some SSRIs?
QT prolongation (notably with citalopram, escitalopram).
Which SNRI has higher overdose toxicity: venlafaxine or duloxetine?
Venlafaxine.
What are key risks with TCAs?
High overdose toxicity, sedation, anticholinergic effects.
Why are MAOIs used last-line?
Dangerous food and drug interactions.
What is required when switching from fluoxetine to an MAOI?
5-week washout period.
Which group is most at risk of antidepressant-induced hyponatraemia?
Elderly.
What should not be offered routinely first-line for less severe depression?
Antidepressants.
What are examples of first-line treatments for less severe depression?
Guided self-help, group CBT, behaviour activation, exercise, mindfulness.
What first-line treatment is offered for more severe depression?
CBT + antidepressant (SSRI or SNRI), or CBT alone.
What does Section 2 of the MHA allow?
Admission for up to 28 days for assessment.
What is Section 4 used for?
Emergency admission for up to 72 hours with one doctor.
