PSYC 350Unit Two NotesDepressive Disorders  Topic I: The Symptoms and Issues- The Symptoms: 1. Mood 2. Feelings of worthlessness and guilt 3. Loss of interest in pleasure  4. Problems with thinking (memory, concentration, slowed thoughts) 5. Physical symptoms (weight, sleep, activity level, fatigue, illnesses)  “Masked Depression” 6. Thoughts about death and suicide - Depression with psychotic features - Onset and course- Major Depressive Disorder: two or more depressive episodes- Dysthymic Disorder: a mild but very persistent depression The case of Sandra- Postpartum Depression: depression within one month of giving birth The case of Brooke Shields and Andrea Yates- Seasonal Affective Disorder: depression during periods of decreased light- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: not technically a disorder in the DSM Gender, age, and cultural factors  Topic II: The causes and Treatments - The Psychodynamic Approach Loss and anger turned inward Stress Psychotherapy to reduce stress  Interpersonal Psychotherapy - The Cognitive Approach Incorrect negative beliefs about he self, the world, and the future Previous experiences; automatic The evidence: weak and strong Beliefs interact with stress Beliefs prolong depression Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to correct beliefs Effective for between 50% and 70% Relapse rate of 20% or 30% in one year Brain changes Changing beliefs or behavioral activation- The Physiological Approach Low levels of neurotransmitters Serotonin and norepinephrine in the hypothalamus  Effects in the hypothalamus and frontal lobes Effects of drugs to decrease and increase Dopamine in the pleasure center Low levels of Omega-3 fatty acids Note links to heart attacks Omega-3 enhances level of serotonin  Damaged brain structures Left prefrontal cortex- Antidepressants to increase levels of neurotransmitters- Types of antidepressants:  SSRI’s: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors Tricyclics: 3 carbon circles MAOI’s: monoamine  Makes more serotonin available  Have a serious side effect: can cause strokes Atypicals: Stimulants:- Effectiveness of antidepressants Different drugs are effective for different people- Limitations and side effects of antidepressants Delayed effect Side effects  Delayed orgasm- Risks during pregnancy - Electroconvulsive (shock) therapy- Transcranial magnetic stimulation- Vagus nerve stimulation- Bipolar Disorder- The Symptoms: Depression Mania and hypomania Rapid cycling and mixed states Psychotic features Schizophrenia - Three Issues: Gender ratio Creativity