Psychiatry

Question 1

what are the cognitive symptoms of depression?

Answer 1

1. poor concentration
2. slow thoughts
3. poor memory

Question 2

what is agoraphobia?

Answer 2

fear of situations in which they may be unable to escape if something goes wrong eg fear of busy places, public transport, anywhere outside their home

Question 3

what is a phobia?

Answer 3

extreme fear of certain things or situations which lead to symptoms of anxiety and panic

Question 4

what are benzodiazepines and how do they work?

Answer 4

• eg. diazepam
• works by stimulating GABA receptors which have a relaxing effect on the brain, giving relief from anxiety
• prolonged use can result in down regulated GABA receptors, leading to tolerance and dependance
• therefore it’s not recommended to offer these for GAD, the only exception being for a short duration during a crisis

Question 5

what is panic disorder?

Answer 5

recurrent panic attacks that are unexpected and result in worry about further attacks an maladaptive behaviour changes relating to the attacks eg. avoiding activities

Question 6

what is schizoid personality disorder?

Answer 6

displays the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, without psychosis

Question 7

what is delusional perception?

Answer 7

where the patient experiences an ordinary and unremarkable perception that triggers a sudden, often self related delusion

Question 8

what is schizophreniform disorder?

Answer 8

presents with the same features as schizophrenia but lasts less than 6 month
- treated with antipsychotics