Depressive Disorders Lecture Notes

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to depressive disorders, their types, symptoms, and treatment options.

Major Depressive Disorder

Characterized by depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, and symptoms present for at least 2 weeks.

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Also known as Dysthymic disorder; characterized by a chronically depressed mood lasting more than 2 years.

Postpartum Depression

Depression that may occur after childbirth, lasting from a few weeks to several months, associated with hormonal changes.

Situational Depression

Depression triggered by a specific stressor or event, often of limited duration.

Bipolar Disorder

A mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

A type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually in the winter when sunlight exposure is limited.

Risk Factors for Depression

Includes prior history of depression, family history of depressive disorders, lack of social support, and life stressors.

Affect

The outward emotional expression that provides clues to a person's mood, which can be blunted, bright, flat, or labile.

Suicidal Ideation

The occurrence of persistent thoughts about suicide, which can vary in intensity and frequency.

Cognitive Theory of Depression

Proposes that depression is primarily a cognitive disturbance characterized by negative expectations of self, environment, and future.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that takes a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

A treatment option for depression that involves electrical stimulation of the brain to induce seizures, typically used for severe cases.

Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)

A class of medications used to treat depression that may cause various side effects and require dietary restrictions.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

A class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat depression by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain.

Behavioral Symptoms of Depression

May include crying, withdrawal from social activities, and changes in physical movements.

Psychomotor Retardation

A slowing down of thought and physical movements often observed in individuals with severe depression.

Nursing Interventions

Include safety evaluation, promoting healthy nutrition, and facilitating psychotherapy to assist patients with depressive disorders.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

A childhood condition marked by severe irritability and outbursts of temper that disrupt family and school functioning.

Family Therapy

A therapeutic intervention aimed at improving communication and resolving conflicts among family members affected by depression.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, and changes in sleep or appetite.