Flashcards week 10 - Mental illnesses

What is the difference between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)?

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is characterized by severe depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks, while Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) involves chronic symptoms of depression lasting for two years or more, often at a lower severity.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

A mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). It can significantly affect energy levels, activity, sleep patterns, and the ability to think clearly.

What are common symptoms of Schizophrenia?

Common symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired functioning. These can significantly disrupt daily life and social relationships.

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

What is Exposure Therapy, and what is it used for?

Exposure therapy is a psychological treatment for anxiety disorders that involves gradually exposing patients to the feared object or context without any danger to help them overcome their anxiety. It aims to reduce the fear response through repeated exposure.

What role does psychotherapy play in treating mental disorders?

Psychotherapy is a crucial treatment method for mental disorders that involves talking with a trained professional to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It helps individuals develop coping strategies, gain insight, and improve emotional well-being.

How does group therapy help individuals with mental illness?

Group therapy provides support, education, and a sense of community for individuals with mental illness. It facilitates sharing experiences and coping strategies, promoting healing through interpersonal connections.

What are the three main types of phobias?

The three main types of phobias are specific phobias, social phobias, and agoraphobia. Specific phobias involve fear of a specific object or situation, social phobia relates to fear of social interactions, and agoraphobia is fear of situations where escape might be difficult.

What is Munchausen Syndrome?

Munchausen Syndrome is a mental disorder in which a person deceives others by fabricating, exaggerating, or inducing illness in themselves to gain attention or sympathy. Individuals may undergo unnecessary medical tests and treatments, leading to potential harm.

What is Hoarding Disorder, and how does it differ from OCD?

Hoarding Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value. Unlike obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), where individuals experience intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety, hoarding is primarily about the accumulation and inability to let go of items.