Symptoms
What are some of the symptoms of depression?
loss of appetite, insomnia, hypersomnia, crying, fatigue, body aches.
What is light therapy and how does it work?
Specialized light that suppress melatonin and increase serotonin naturally.
Who can help you manage your depression?
Therapist, psychiatrist, family, friends.
What are two ways clinical depression is treated?
Therapy and Medication
Name three common classes of antidepressants.
SSRI's, SNRI's, Tricyclics and/or MAOI's
How does depression affect our thoughts?
low self-esteem, suicidal ideations, negative self-talk, issues with memory.
How long does one have to have depression symptoms to be diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder?
At least 14 days.
How/Why does exercise help reduce depression?
It releases endorphins
If you are having suicidal ideations and can't get to your therapist who do you call?
What education should you give a patient starting on a new antidepressant?
Never stop suddenly without medical guidance
Take 2-4 weeks to start working
Take at same time everyday
Can increase suicidal thoughts
Don't start other medications/herbals without asking
How does depression affect our social life?
Isolation, not able to be supportive of people close to us.
Can certain medications cause depression?
Yes (steroids, stimulants, etc)
How can mindfulness activities help you manage depression?
Focus on the here and now instead of worrying about the future or feeling guilty about the past.
True or False if you ignore your depression will it go away?
False
List three possible side effects of abruptly quitting antidepressants.
Mood changes (Irritability, agitation, anxiety)
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Sleep disturbance
Flu- like symptoms (headaches, muscle aches, chills, fatigue, and sweating )
How does Depression affect the way we see the world?
Hopeless, overall bad, disconnected from self, catastrophizing future
Is someone more likely to have depression in the future if their close family member has suffered from depression?
Yes.
What are some indoor activities you can do to manage depression?
Listen to music, draw, paint, knit, cook, volunteer somewhere, breathing exercises, read,daily affirmations, etc.
What are some therapeutic exercises you can do on your own?
Deep breathing, challenging negative thoughts, positive self-talk, mindfulness.
How do antidepressants work?
They work by affecting brain chemicals that regulate mood, such as serotonin and norepinephrine.
How does depression effect our productivity?
Don't go to school or work, don't clean the house, don't engage in hygiene.
How many people suffer from depression in the U.S?
About 27 million adults or 8% of the population
What are some outdoor activities you can do to manage depression?
Walk, visit a friend, work, go to the gym.
How can you help a friend or family member who is depressed?
Listen to them, give them the hotline number if they are suicidal, help them find a support group or therapist.
List three of the most common reasons for stopping antidepressants.
People discontinue antidepressants for various reasons, including experiencing side effects, believing the medication isn't helping, or wanting to explore non-medication based treatments. Some individuals may also feel better and believe they no longer need the medication, while others may stop due to concerns about long-term effects, cost, or other life changes.