Depression

Question 1

What are the core symptoms of depression?

Answer 1

Persistently low mood
Loss of energy
Anhedonia

Present for at least 2 weeks (not due to grief or substance use)

Question 2

What are associated symptoms of depression?

Answer 2

Sleep disturbance
Poor concentration
Libido loss
Worthlessness
Hopelessness
Change in appetite/ weight
Psychomotor agitation/ retardation
Fatigue
Suicidality

Question 3

What are some differentials to depression?

Answer 3

Hypothyroidism
Parkinson’s
MS
Dementia
Adverse drug affects
Substance misuse
Anxiety
BPD
PMDD (Premenstrual dysphoric disorder)

Question 4

What is the condition that recurs annually around the same time (often winter) with remission in between.

Answer 4

Seasonal affective disorder
(Managed with light therapy and SSRIs)

Question 5

What is dysthymic disorder?

Answer 5

2-5 years of persistent, subthreshold depressive symptoms. Managed with SSRIs and CBT

Question 6

When does postnatal depression occur?

Answer 6

Peaks 3-4 weeks postpartum, may occur anytime during first year

Question 7

What are the “baby blues”?

Answer 7

occurs 2-3 days after birth but resolves within 2 weeks.