Fundamentals of Psychopathology: Depressive and Bipolar Disorders

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to depressive and bipolar disorders as outlined in the lecture notes.

Definition of Depression

A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.

Symptoms of Depression

Emotional (miserable, empty), motivational (lack of drive), behavioral (less active), cognitive (negative thinking), and physical symptoms (headaches, pain).

Major Depressive Disorder

A severe form of depression with significant impairment.

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Chronic depression lasting for at least 2 years.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

A severe form of premenstrual syndrome with depressive symptoms.

Postpartum Depression

Major depression occurring during or after pregnancy.

Major Depressive Episode

A period of at least 2 weeks with depressed mood and lack of interest in activities.

Symptoms of Major Depressive Episode

Symptoms include weight change, insomnia, fatigue, worthlessness, and focus on death.

Bipolar Disorder

A mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression).

Manic Episode Symptoms

Include grandiosity, reduced sleep need, rapid thoughts, and risky behavior.

Bipolar I Disorder

Characterized by the occurrence of at least one manic episode.

Bipolar II Disorder

Involves at least one major depressive episode and one hypomanic episode.

Cyclothymic Disorder

A milder form of bipolar disorder lasting for at least 2 years.

Biological Factors of Unipolar Depression

Low activity of serotonin and norepinephrine; brain circuit dysfunction.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

A treatment focused on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Psychodynamic Model

Depression results from unresolved conflicts and losses in early relationships.

Biological Treatments for Unipolar Depression

Including MAO inhibitors, tricyclics, and SSRIs.

Learned Helplessness

A state where individuals believe they have no control over their life outcomes.

Negative Thinking

Cognitive distortions that contribute to depression, such as the cognitive triad.

Behavioral Activation

A cognitive-behavioral technique aimed at increasing engagement in enjoyable activities.

Family-Social Perspective

Focuses on the impact of social relationships and support on depression.

Multicultural Perspective

Examines how cultural factors influence the experience and expression of depression.

Bipolar Disorder Prevalence

1 to 2.8 percent of adults experience bipolar disorder at any given time.

Mood Stabilizing Drugs

Medications used to treat bipolar disorder and stabilize mood swings.

Lithium

A mood stabilizer effective in treating mania and preventing mood episodes.

Adjunctive Psychotherapy

Therapy that supports medication adherence and improves social functioning.

Neurotransmitter Activity in Mania

Disrupted levels of norepinephrine and serotonin can influence mania.

Ion Activity

Improper ion transportation within neurons may contribute to mood disorders.

Cognitive Triad

Negative views of experiences, oneself, and the future, contributing to depression.

Statistical Prevalence of Unipolar Depression

8% diagnosed in any given year, 20% at least once in their life.

Agitation and Lethargy

Symptoms often experienced in major depressive episodes and represent physical manifestations.

Psychotropic Medications

Drugs used to treat psychological disorders, including antidepressants and mood stabilizers.

Postpartum Depression Duration

May last up to a year or more after childbirth.

HPA Pathway

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis involved in stress responses affecting depression.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter believed to play a significant role in mood regulation.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter associated with alertness and arousal, also linked to mood disorders.

Impact of Social Support on Depression

Weak or unavailable social support may exacerbate depressive symptoms.

Insights from Studies

Research has investigated brain structure, neurotransmitters, and genetic factors in bipolar disorder.

Emotional Symptoms in Mania

A state of heightened and often inappropriate emotional experiences.

Motivational Symptoms of Mania

The need for constant excitement and companionship during manic states.

Cognitive Indicators of Mania

Difficulty in maintaining focus and experiencing racing thoughts.

Physical Symptoms of Mania

High energy levels and little need for sleep.

Diagnostic Criteria for Hypomanic Episodes

Less severe than manic episodes, associated with elevated mood and increased activity.

Nature of Depressive Disorders

A variety of conditions that disrupt mood and motivation.

Common Treatments for Bipolar Disorders

Often involve a combination of mood stabilizers and psychotherapy.

Risk of Suicide in Depression

Major depression carries a significant risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Relationship between Stress and Mood Disorders

Life stressors can trigger episodes of depression or mania.