What Is Depression?

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John Ogrodniczuk, PhD, discusses depression symptoms and treatments.
John Ogrodniczuk, PhD, discusses depression symptoms and treatments.
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Video transcript

Featuring Dr. John Ogrodniczuk, PhD

Duration: 36 seconds

Depression is commonly described by signs and symptoms like persistent sadness, an empty mood, pessimism and hopelessness, loss of interest in activities that were typically pleasurable for you.

And there's not necessarily one type of depression - it can come and go. You can have episodes that may last for a couple of months, or it may last for several months. And a form of depression that's sort of a low-grade aspect is dysthymia.

Presenter: Dr. John Ogrodniczuk, Psychologist, Vancouver, BC

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97-100 People got two or more of these video questions wrong... ( 60 participated.)

Quiz: Do You Understand Depression?

Questions
 
True
False
1

There is no link between depression and exercise.

Explanation:

Studies show that exercise may help reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. Exercise releases powerful chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin, which improve mood and feelings of well-being. It can lower cortisol (also called the “stress hormone”) levels and support nerve cell growth in the hippocampus, a region of the brain that helps regulate mood.

2

Eating a healthy diet may reduce depression symptoms.

Explanation:

Research shows that eating a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains and healthy fats may reduce symptoms of depression. A diet high in red meat, sugar and fried foods has been associated with an increased risk of depression.

3

Depression symptoms in men and women are the same.

Explanation:

Though many symptoms of depression are the same in men and women, there are some differences. For example, men with depression are more likely than women to engage in risk-taking behaviors and drink or take drugs excessively.

4

There is no link between obesity and mental health issues.

Explanation:

Studies have found that a disproportionate number of patients with mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression are obese compared to the general population. This may be due to a negative self-image, the social stigma of being obese and physical inactivity.

5

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common tool used to treat depression.

Explanation:

CBT is a type of psychotherapy that is commonly used to treat depression. It focuses on modifying thought patterns to help patients change moods and behaviors.

This content is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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