Understanding Mood Disorders

Understanding Mood Disorders 

Learning objective(s):  Explore the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder.  Consider how pharmacology plays a role in the treatment of mood disorders.  

Submission details:  Please complete these questions in the discussion board below and respond, in-depth (per the criteria outlined in the course welcome letter) to at least ONE classmate.

Scoring criteria/rubric:  A rubric is attached to the discussion board.  The assignment is worth 10 points.

Restrictions: You must complete this assignment INDIVIDUALLY.  You are not to work in pairs or groups.

Length: Your answers to each question should be thorough yet concise.  There is no length requirement, but all aspects of each question must be addressed completely.

Resources: Please refer to chapters 7 and 8 when answering these questions.  Be sure to integrate concepts from the readings as well as any outside sources that are relevant.  If you use outside sources, please cite the sources and provide and APA style reference.

After reading your text book and watching the videos on depression and bipolar disorder, please respond to the following prompts:

1) How is major depressive disorder different from bipolar disorder?

2) How can you differentiate a manic episode from a healthy period of increased energy and productivity?

3) What factors should someone with depression and/or bipolar disorder consider when deciding whether to use medication in the management of their illness?

4) How are mood disorders different from dissociative disorders?

Remember to provide your reactions to at least one classmate’s responses.