1. Which of the following is considered a common cause of depression?
a) Genetic predisposition
b) Physical activity
c) Excessive sleep
d) Lack of social media use
Answer: a) Genetic predisposition
Explanation: Genetics play a role in the development of depression. A family history of depression increases the likelihood of developing it.
2. What is the primary symptom of major depressive disorder?
a) Extreme happiness
b) Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
c) Excessive energy
d) Rapid speech
Answer: b) Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
Explanation: Major depressive disorder is characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities.
3. Which neurotransmitter is most commonly associated with depression?
a) Dopamine
b) Serotonin
c) GABA
d) Acetylcholine
Answer: b) Serotonin
Explanation: Serotonin is often implicated in depression, and many antidepressant medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on which aspect to treat depression?
a) The role of childhood trauma
b) Changing negative thought patterns
c) Medication management
d) Sleep hygiene
Answer: b) Changing negative thought patterns
Explanation: CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depression.
5. Which of the following is NOT a symptom of depression?
a) Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
b) Low energy or fatigue
c) Rapid weight loss without trying
d) Increased desire to socialize
Answer: d) Increased desire to socialize
Explanation: People with depression typically experience social withdrawal and a lack of interest in socializing.
6. Which of the following is a potential physical symptom of depression?
a) Insomnia or hypersomnia
b) Increased appetite
c) Increased focus
d) Overactive behavior
Answer: a) Insomnia or hypersomnia
Explanation: Depression can lead to disturbances in sleep patterns, either excessive sleeping (hypersomnia) or difficulty sleeping (insomnia).
7. Which of these is a key factor in the treatment of depression?
a) Medication alone
b) Therapy and medication
c) Rest and relaxation
d) Ignoring the symptoms
Answer: b) Therapy and medication
Explanation: A combination of therapy (such as CBT) and medication (like antidepressants) is often the most effective approach for treating depression.
8. The use of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in depression treatment targets which neurotransmitter?
a) Serotonin
b) Dopamine
c) GABA
d) Endorphins
Answer: a) Serotonin
Explanation: SSRIs are designed to increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is thought to help alleviate depression symptoms.
9. Which of the following is a common cognitive symptom of depression?
a) Rapid speech
b) Excessive social interactions
c) Difficulty concentrating
d) Extreme alertness
Answer: c) Difficulty concentrating
Explanation: Depression often leads to trouble focusing, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks or retain information.
10. Which of the following is a common behavioral symptom of depression?
a) Hyperactivity
b) Increased productivity
c) Withdrawal from social activities
d) Talking more frequently
Answer: c) Withdrawal from social activities
Explanation: People with depression often isolate themselves from social interactions and activities they once enjoyed.
11. A person who has a family member with depression has a higher risk of developing depression. This is an example of:
a) Social learning
b) Genetic predisposition
c) Cognitive distortion
d) Classical conditioning
Answer: b) Genetic predisposition
Explanation: Genetics can influence the likelihood of developing depression, especially if close family members have had it.
12. A person experiencing depression might demonstrate which of the following emotional symptoms?
a) Feelings of worthlessness
b) Euphoria
c) Overconfidence
d) Indifference to life events
Answer: a) Feelings of worthlessness
Explanation: Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and hopelessness are emotional symptoms commonly associated with depression.
13. Which of these lifestyle changes can help manage depression?
a) Increased exercise
b) Ignoring negative thoughts
c) Excessive use of alcohol
d) Lack of sleep
Answer: a) Increased exercise
Explanation: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression by releasing endorphins.
14. Which of the following best describes ‘learned helplessness’ in the context of depression?
a) A feeling of having control over one’s circumstances
b) A state where individuals believe they have no control over their situation
c) A symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder
d) A personality trait related to assertiveness
Answer: b) A state where individuals believe they have no control over their situation
Explanation: Learned helplessness occurs when individuals believe they have no control over their life, which can contribute to depression.
15. The effectiveness of antidepressant medication can be influenced by:
a) Patient’s diet
b) The patient’s belief in the medication
c) Time of day taken
d) Family history alone
Answer: b) The patient’s belief in the medication
Explanation: The patient’s belief and commitment to the treatment plan can enhance the effectiveness of antidepressant medications.
16. Which type of therapy involves the patient confronting their fears in a controlled environment to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms?
a) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
b) Exposure therapy
c) Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
d) Interpersonal therapy
Answer: b) Exposure therapy
Explanation: Exposure therapy involves gradually confronting fears or stressors in a safe setting, which can help reduce depression and anxiety.
17. Which of the following is an example of a ‘negative thought pattern’ that CBT would aim to change in treating depression?
a) “I will never be able to improve.”
b) “I can try and learn from my mistakes.”
c) “I can handle this situation.”
d) “Life is good most of the time.”
Answer: a) “I will never be able to improve.”
Explanation: CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative, distorted thought patterns such as feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
18. Which of the following can be a side effect of antidepressant medications?
a) Drowsiness or dry mouth
b) Decreased blood pressure
c) Increased happiness immediately
d) Extreme weight loss
Answer: a) Drowsiness or dry mouth
Explanation: Antidepressants, especially SSRIs, can have side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, or nausea.
19. Which of these individuals would be most at risk for developing depression?
a) Someone with a recent traumatic event
b) A person with a positive social network
c) Someone with no family history of depression
d) A person with a healthy work-life balance
Answer: a) Someone with a recent traumatic event
Explanation: Recent trauma or significant stress can increase the risk of developing depression, especially in individuals already vulnerable.
20. What is a key benefit of Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) in treating depression?
a) It focuses on medication management
b) It targets relationship problems and role transitions
c) It aims to increase daily physical activity
d) It primarily addresses sleep disturbances
Answer: b) It targets relationship problems and role transitions
Explanation: IPT focuses on resolving interpersonal issues, role conflicts, and life transitions, which can help reduce depressive symptoms.
21. Which of the following statements is true regarding bipolar disorder?
a) It is characterized by alternating periods of depression and mania.
b) Depression is not a symptom of bipolar disorder.
c) Bipolar disorder only affects adults.
d) It has no genetic component.
Answer: a) It is characterized by alternating periods of depression and mania.
Explanation: Bipolar disorder involves mood swings between depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes.
22. Which of the following is a potential result of untreated depression?
a) Improved quality of life
b) Increased levels of happiness
c) Chronic pain or physical ailments
d) Enhanced cognitive function
Answer: c) Chronic pain or physical ailments
Explanation: Untreated depression can lead to physical health problems, such as chronic pain, fatigue, or digestive issues.
23. Which therapy is specifically designed for individuals with depression and focuses on improving mood and self-esteem through structured exercises?
a) Psychodynamic therapy
b) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
c) Behavioral Activation Therapy
d) Family therapy
Answer: c) Behavioral Activation Therapy
Explanation: Behavioral Activation Therapy helps individuals with depression engage in rewarding activities and improve their mood through positive reinforcement.
24. Which of the following is a hallmark symptom of dysthymia (persistent depressive disorder)?
a) Symptoms lasting at least two years
b) Sudden onset of depressive symptoms
c) Intense manic episodes
d) Complete absence of sadness
Answer: a) Symptoms lasting at least two years
Explanation: Dysthymia is characterized by persistent, mild depression lasting for at least two years, often with symptoms that are less intense than major depression.
25. What role do endorphins play in relation to depression?
a) They increase anxiety symptoms
b) They act as mood stabilizers
c) They improve cognitive function
d) They improve physical performance only
Answer: b) They act as mood stabilizers
Explanation: Endorphins are natural chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood and may be depleted in individuals with depression.
26. Which factor may make depression treatment more effective?
a) Waiting for symptoms to resolve on their own
b) Using complementary treatments without consultation
c) Combining therapy with medication
d) Relying on self-diagnosis
Answer: c) Combining therapy with medication
Explanation: A combination of therapy and medication often provides the most comprehensive and effective treatment for depression.
27. What is the first step in treating depression?
a) Starting medication immediately
b) Understanding the symptoms and seeking help
c) Ignoring the condition to let it pass
d) Avoiding therapy and counseling
Answer: b) Understanding the symptoms and seeking help
Explanation: The first step is recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment, which could include therapy, medication, or both.
28. Which of the following is a common reason why people with depression avoid seeking help?
a) Fear of stigmatization
b) Lack of awareness about available treatments
c) Both a and b
d) None of the above
Answer: c) Both a and b
Explanation: Fear of stigma and lack of awareness about treatment options are common barriers to seeking help for depression.
29. Which of the following strategies is effective for preventing relapse in depression?
a) Ignoring treatment after symptoms improve
b) Continuing therapy even after medication is stopped
c) Avoiding social interactions
d) Relying solely on medication
Answer: b) Continuing therapy even after medication is stopped
Explanation: Continuing therapy after medication is stopped can help prevent relapse by providing coping strategies and emotional support.
30. Which of the following best describes ‘self-compassion’ in the context of depression?
a) Blaming oneself for symptoms
b) Being kind and understanding to oneself during difficult times
c) Denying feelings of sadness
d) Comparing oneself to others
Answer: b) Being kind and understanding to oneself during difficult times
Explanation: Self-compassion involves treating oneself with kindness during emotional struggles, which is important for managing depression.
