Why might aldolesence be more at risk | A changing social environment
Neural, hormone and genetic factors --> Adolescents’ amygdala respond to threat cue more than adults’ , but not to the safety cue, hormonal changes in puberty, increased activation of emotional circuits |
What are some warning signs of depression | Feelings of hopelessness/worthlessness
Thoughts of self harm and suicide
Irregular sleep
Decreased concentration
Appetite and weight loss
Depressed mood every day / Diminished pleasure or interest in daily activities every day ( these 2 you NEED )
Each symptom should be present for 2 weeks and at least 5 |
What are some factors affecting depression | Demographic --> female, unemployed, single or divorced
Genetic --> family history , specific genes
Social factors --> relationships, childhood adversity , ongoing or previous stressors
Biolgoical factors --> HPA axis , emotional neural circuitity |
What is one medication for depression | Tricyclic antidepressants ( TCAs ) e.g. Imipramine is the first line treatment for depression
Later replaced by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors e.g. Prozac
These drugs increase serotonin levels outside the cell, hence decrease depressive symptoms |
What are some cognitive defects in depression | All or nothing thinking
Catastrophizing (thinking the worst)
Discounting the positives
Overgeneralization
Mind reading (assuming you know what others think of you)
Personalisation (negative events are your fault)
Imperatives (fixed ideas about what you/others should do)
Interpretation biases |
What is the difference between CBT and MBCT | CBT uses mainly behavioral activation and critically challenging and replacing the content of negative thoughts
While MBCT uses the learning to relate differently to thoughts and feelings, in a nonjudgmental and accepting way, merely observing them as they come and go |
What is MBCT | Mindfulness based cognitive therapy
Notice negative thoughts and actions and accept it and allow without labelling and judgement
Meditation
Shift from “analytical” to “experiential” mode/focus |