Mood Disorders: Introduction (04:17)

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Phyllis and Rodney describe their experiences with depression and mania. This program will examine causes of and treatments for mood disorders. Dr. Danielle Knafo uses a budding romance to explain the normal range of moods.

What is Major Depression? (04:37)

Approximately 15 million Americans will experience major depression during their lives; pathology depends on severity and duration. Margarita became depressed when her husband was arrested; she is on medication and going to therapy. Dr. Esther Bailliet discusses her symptoms.

Forms of Depression (06:28)

Phyllis is undergoing medication and psychotherapy treatment for major depression; it took years to be diagnosed. Learn about mild to acute symptoms, including psychosis and depressive stupor. Most patients feel that they are living beneath a cloud.

Suicide Risks (03:45)

Depressed patients are in emotional pain and feel hopeless. Phyllis describes contemplating suicide to end her misery. Loved ones also suffer; her daughter recalls a love-hate relationship.

What is Bipolar Disorder? (06:47)

Approximately 1.5 million Americans suffer manic depression. Dr. Jan Fawcett discusses the manic range, from hypomania to manic psychosis. Rodney describes endangering the lives of others while delusional.

Major Depression Causal Factors (05:31)

Knafo explains Freud's theory of depression, in which individuals turn anger inward. Dr. Michael Young discusses a risk factor model, in which psychological, environmental and biological risks can push individuals into depression. Lifetime exposure to social problems also increases risk.

Populations at Risk for Major Depression (03:49)

Women are twice as likely to suffer depression. Femininity is defined by relatedness and masculinity by separateness; women tend to experience relationship trauma more intensely. Fawcett discusses the link between alcoholism and depression, hormonal gender differences, and social differences.

Major Depression and Manic Depression Biological Factors (04:10)

Rodney's mother also suffered a manic episode. Families sometimes exhibit transmission of mood disorders, but genes have not yet been identified. Neurotransmitter deficits may produce depression, while excess may produce mania. Hear a summary of factors contributing to depression.

Major Depression Treatment (09:51)

Psychotherapy and medication are common. Drugs increasing neurotransmitter availability include tricyclic antidepressants and MAO inhibitors; side effects are a consideration. Learn about psychodynamic and cognitive behavior therapy methods, and electro-convulsive therapy.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment (04:06)

Manic depression seems to be a lifelong condition. Lithium carbonate prevents reoccurring episodes; psychodynamic psychotherapy and support groups can also help patients.

Mood Disorder Summary (02:47)

Episodes of major depression and bipolar disorder can range from mile to severe. Causes can be biological, psychological, and environmental; treatments are individual. Phyllis and Rodney reflect on improvement with treatment.

Credits: Mood Disorders (01:21)

Credits: Mood Disorders