Depressive and Bipolar Disorders Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts of mood disorders and their features, symptoms, treatments, and suicide risk factors.

What defines a Major Depressive Episode?

An extremely depressed mood lasting at least 2 weeks, cognitive symptoms, and loss of pleasure in usual activities.

What are common symptoms of depression?

Prolonged sadness, changes in appetite and sleep, feelings of worthlessness, and recurrent thoughts of death.

What is a manic episode characterized by?

Abnormally exaggerated elation or euphoria, requiring decreased need for sleep, and can include grandiose plans.

How long does an untreated manic episode typically last?

3 to 6 months.

What is the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder?

Bipolar I involves full manic episodes, while Bipolar II involves major depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes.

What is Persistent Depressive Disorder?

A chronic form of depression that persists for at least 2 years with milder symptoms than major depression.

How is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder defined?

Presence of severe mood symptoms in the week before menses, improving shortly after menstruation begins.

What is Cyclothymic Disorder?

A chronic version of bipolar disorder featuring hypomanic and depressive episodes that don't meet full criteria.

What is the prevalence of major depression worldwide?

16% lifetime prevalence.

What neurotransmitter system is associated with mood disorders?

Low levels of serotonin.

What psychological factor does learned helplessness relate to?

Perceived lack of control over life events leading to depression.

What is the cognitive triad in depression?

Negative thoughts about oneself, the world, and the future.

What are SSRIs and their primary function?

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors that specifically block the reuptake of serotonin.

What is the role of lithium in treating bipolar disorders?

Lithium is the primary drug of choice for bipolar disorders, requiring careful dosage to avoid toxicity.

What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) used for?

Severe depression, effective in cases that don't respond to other treatments.

What are common risk factors for suicide?

Low serotonin levels, alcohol use, past suicidal behavior, and psychological disorders.

What is the SAD PERSONS scale used for?

Assessing suicide risk based on ten criteria related to personal and psychological factors.

What are the common emotions and states involved in suicide?

Hopelessness, ambivalence, and a desire to seek a solution to intolerable psychological pain.