From the Guidelines
Objectives for a depression presentation should prioritize educating the audience about evidence-based treatment options, including cognitive behavioral therapy and second-generation antidepressants, as recommended by the American College of Physicians 1.
Key Objectives
- Define depression as a major health care issue and a leading cause of disability in adults worldwide, with a significant economic burden 1
- Discuss the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD), including depressed mood, loss of interest, and other symptoms lasting at least two weeks 1
- Detail the three phases of depression treatment: acute (6-12 weeks), continuation (4-9 months), and maintenance (≥1 year) 1
- Emphasize the importance of selecting between cognitive behavioral therapy or second-generation antidepressants after discussing treatment effects, adverse effect profiles, cost, accessibility, and patient preferences 1
Treatment Approaches
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: typically 12-16 weekly sessions 1
- Second-generation antidepressants: selection based on patient preferences, treatment effects, and adverse effect profiles 1
Lifestyle Interventions
- Regular exercise: 30 minutes daily 1
- Sleep hygiene practices: establishment of a consistent sleep schedule and sleep-conducive environment 1
- Social connection: encouragement of social support networks and activities 1
Neurobiological Basis
- Neurotransmitter imbalances: serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine 1
- Structural brain changes: discussion of the impact of depression on brain structure and function 1
Recognizing Warning Signs and Reducing Stigma
- Education on warning signs: suicidal ideation, significant changes in mood or behavior 1
- Reducing stigma: promotion of mental health resources and support services 1
From the FDA Drug Label
A major depressive episode implies a prominent and relatively persistent depressed or dysphoric mood that usually interferes with daily functioning (nearly every day for at least 2 weeks); it should include at least 4 of the following 8 symptoms: change in appetite, change in sleep, psychomotor agitation or retardation, loss of interest in usual activities or decrease in sexual drive, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or impaired concentration, and a suicide attempt or suicidal ideation.
The objectives for depression presentation include:
- A prominent and relatively persistent depressed or dysphoric mood
- Interference with daily functioning for at least 2 weeks
- At least 4 of the following symptoms:
- Change in appetite
- Change in sleep
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation
- Loss of interest in usual activities or decrease in sexual drive
- Increased fatigue
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Slowed thinking or impaired concentration
- A suicide attempt or suicidal ideation 2
From the Research
Objectives for Depression Presentation
The following objectives can be considered for a depression presentation:
- To understand the effectiveness of combined cognitive-behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy for adolescent depression, as shown in the Treatment for Adolescents with Depression Study (TADS) 3, 4
- To recognize the importance of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the treatment of depression, including their benefits and potential adverse effects 5, 6
- To explore the role of exercise as a low-cost and easy-to-use treatment for depression, including its therapeutic effects and recommended protocols 7
- To compare the efficacy and tolerability of different SSRIs, such as fluoxetine, citalopram, escitalopram, sertraline, paroxetine, and fluvoxamine, in the acute-phase treatment of adults with major depressive disorder 6
Key Considerations
When presenting on depression, it is essential to consider the following:
- The complexity of depression and the need for individualized treatment plans
- The potential benefits and risks of different treatment options, including pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and exercise
- The importance of monitoring and managing potential adverse effects of treatment, such as suicidal ideation and behavior 3, 5
- The need for ongoing research and evaluation to improve our understanding of depression and its treatment 3, 6