Major Depressive Disorder

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and diagnostic criteria related to Major Depressive Disorder as discussed in the lecture.

What is the definition of mood in the context of depressive disorders?

A pervasive and sustained emotion or feeling tone that influences a person's behavior and colors his or her perception of being in the world.

What are common features of depressive disorders?

Presence of sad, empty, or irritable mood accompanied by somatic and cognitive changes that significantly affect the individual's capacity to function.

What is the lifetime prevalence rate of major depressive disorder?

Range is 5-17%, with an average of 12%.

In which gender is major depressive disorder more prevalent?

Women, with a twofold greater prevalence than men.

What is the mean age of onset for major depressive disorder?

40 years old, with 50% of patients having an onset between 20 to 50 years old.

What is the correlation between socioeconomic status and major depressive disorder?

No correlation has been found.

What are some common comorbidities associated with major mood disorders?

Alcohol abuse, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety disorder.

What role does norepinephrine play in major depressive disorder?

There is a correlation between the downregulation or decreased sensitivity of ẞ-adrenergic receptors and clinical antidepressant responses.

What is the significance of familial studies in the etiology of major depressive disorder?

If one parent has a mood disorder, the child has a risk of 10-25% for developing a mood disorder; this risk doubles if both parents are affected.

What is Aaron Beck's Cognitive Triad of Depression?

It includes negative views about the self, the environment, and the future.

What are the diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode?

Five or more symptoms present during the same 2-week period, one of which must be depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure.

What are some key symptoms associated with depressive episodes?

Depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, and suicidal ideation.

What are the distinguishing features of melancholic depression?

Severe anhedonia, early morning awakening, weight loss, and profound feelings of guilt.

What is the typical duration of untreated major depressive episodes?

6-13 months.

What are some treatment options for major depressive disorder?

Pharmacotherapy, cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, and family therapy.

What factors predict a poor prognosis in patients with major depressive disorder?

Coexisting dysthymic disorder, alcohol abuse, anxiety disorder symptoms, and multiple previous depressive episodes.

What is considered the initial medication selection in pharmacotherapy for major depressive disorder?

Depends on the chronicity of the condition, course of illness, family history, severity of symptoms, and other health considerations.