Depression

Depression is characterized by symptoms that last for at least 2 weeks. The severity of depression is determined by the number of symptoms present.

Main symptoms (at least 1 symptom)
 

•     Depressed mood

•     Loss of interest or pleasure

•     Reduced energy / rapid exhaustion

Additional symptoms
 

•     Impaired concentration and attention

•     Low self-esteem

•     Feelings of guilt or intense self-reproach

•     Negative outlook on the future

•     Suicidal thoughts or impulses to self-harm

•     Sleep disturbances

•     Decreased or increased appetite

•     psychomotor agitation or retardation

Depression is classified under ICD-10 codes F32/F33

Prevalence

Depression is relatively common. According to S3 guidelines, the lifetime probability of experiencing a depressive episode is approximately 16–20%.

Treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) assumes that depressive symptoms arise from an interplay of stressful experiences, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and are maintained, among other things, by distressing thought patterns and maladaptive behaviors.

Treatment Goals:

​

•     Identify and challenge negative automatic thoughts

•     Develop more realistic and helpful ways of thinking

•     Reduce withdrawal and passivity

•     Gradually incorporate positive activities into the