Depression in the Kenntnisprüfung

Which core symptoms characterise depression?

• Low mood, lack of drive and loss of interest/joy for at least two weeks
• Low mood, lack of drive and loss of joy that subside after one to two days
• Physical pain without findings, while mood and drive typically remain unremarkable
• Increased drive, pressure of speech and a reduced need for sleep for at least two weeks

Explanation: The main triad: depressed mood, reduced drive, anhedonia — for at least two weeks. In addition, disturbances of sleep, appetite and concentration. Brief low moods are not yet depression.

A resident says: “Es hat doch alles keinen Sinn mehr.” (There’s no point in anything any more.) How do you respond?

• Gently change the subject so as not to burden him, and document the statement
• Cheer him up: “It’s not that bad, everything will look different tomorrow.”
• Ask calmly and directly about suicidal thoughts, stay present, inform the doctor
• Do not ask about suicidal thoughts so as not to give him the idea, but inform the doctor

Explanation: Asking directly and calmly does not “give anyone the idea” — it relieves and protects. Always take statements about being tired of life seriously, inform the doctor, do not leave the person alone.