MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS & MEDICATIONS

Why is it important for social workers to understand medical disorders?

Many medical disorders can mimic psychiatric symptoms.

🚨 ASWB Tip:
Always rule out medical causes before assuming a mental health diagnosis.

What is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?

A depressive episode lasting at least 2 weeks with significant impairment.

Symptoms:

• Depressed mood

• Loss of interest (anhedonia)

• Sleep changes

• Appetite changes

• Fatigue

• Feelings of worthlessness

• Suicidal thoughts

🚨 ASWB Tip:
Always assess suicide risk.

What is Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

Chronic depression lasting at least 2 years in adults.

⭐ Testable Difference:
MDD = More severe

PDD = Longer duration

What medication class is commonly used for depression?

SSRIs

Examples:

• Prozac

• Zoloft

• Lexapro

• Paxil

Question:
What are common SSRI side effects?

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• Nausea

• Insomnia

• Headache

• Sexual dysfunction

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What is Bipolar II Disorder?

Hypomania + Major Depression

⭐ Testable Difference:
No full manic episode.

What is Bipolar I Disorder?

At least one manic episode.

Symptoms:

• Grandiosity

• Little need for sleep

• Racing thoughts

• Risky behaviors

🚨 ASWB Tip:
Mania = Bipolar I

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What medication is commonly used for Bipolar Disorder?

Lithium

🚨 ASWB Tip:

Lithium requires blood level monitoring.

What is Cyclothymic Disorder?

Chronic mood fluctuations that do not meet full criteria for Bipolar I or II.

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Excessive worry occurring more days than not for at least 6 months.

Symptoms:

• Restlessness

• Fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• Irritability

What is Panic Disorder?

Recurrent unexpected panic attacks.

Symptoms:

• Chest pain

• Sweating

• Shortness of breath

• Fear of dying

🚨 ASWB Tip:
Panic attacks can mimic heart attacks.

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What medication class is commonly used for anxiety?

Benzodiazepines

Examples:

• Xanax

• Ativan

• Klonopin

What is the biggest concern with benzodiazepines?

Dependence and withdrawal.

What is PTSD?

Symptoms following exposure to actual or threatened death, injury, or violence.

Symptoms:

• Flashbacks

• Nightmares

• Hypervigilance

• Avoidance

What is Acute Stress Disorder?

PTSD-like symptoms occurring within the first month after trauma.

⭐ Testable Difference:
Acute Stress Disorder = Less than 1 month

PTSD = More than 1 month

What is Adjustment Disorder?

Emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to a stressor.

🚨 ASWB Tip:
Less severe than PTSD.

What are positive symptoms of schizophrenia?

• Hallucinations

• Delusions

• Disorganized speech

What are negative symptoms of schizophrenia?

• Flat affect

• Social withdrawal

• Lack of motivation

What medication class treats schizophrenia?

Antipsychotics

Examples:

• Risperdal

• Seroquel

• Haldol

• Zyprexa

What is Schizoaffective Disorder?

Symptoms of schizophrenia plus a mood disorder.

🚨 ASWB Tip:
Think "Schizophrenia + Mood Symptoms"

What are common symptoms of ADHD?

• Inattention

• Hyperactivity

• Impulsivity

What medications are commonly used for ADHD?

Stimulants

Examples:

• Adderall

• Ritalin

• Vyvanse

What should a social worker do when a client reports medication side effects?

Assess concerns and encourage consultation with the prescribing provider.

🚨 NEVER:

• Stop medication

• Restart medication

• Change dosage

• Recommend medication changes

Those decisions belong to the prescriber.