History taking - Depression.
Introduction:
Loss of interest or pleasure?
Appetite & weight loss?
Sleep patterns (early morning waking and insomnia)?
mood variations?
Thought process?
Sexual activity?
Ability to concentrate?
Worthless, guilt and self-blame?
Thoughts of death and suicide and suicide attempts?
Smoking alcohol and drug addiction?
Loss of job? Death of a loved one and Divorce
Causes of depression: Biochemical: increase in 5HT
Endocrine: cortisol suppression
Stress: new birth, job loss, divorce and illness
Vulnerability factors: illness, pain, and lack of intimate relationship.
Management: Antidepressants: Amitriptyline, Dothiepin.
Reference: Postnatal depression.