c. Psychosocial Symptoms or Possible Contributing Factors in Depression.
Psychosocial symptoms refer to human emotions and the context of change in the life-
pattern of an individual. Many of these symptoms are caused by stress due to some
current situation (recently or within the last year). Remember that a substance abuser
may exhibit some of these same psychosocial symptoms. The symptoms include the
following.
(1)
Depressed mood.
(a)
Feels low, sad, gloomy.
(b)
Expresses self-reproach, self-depreciation.
(c)
Tearfulness and/or trembling.
(2)
Change in appearance.
NOTE:
Changes in appearance are indicative of the person's mood and deteriorating
self-image.
(a)
Self-neglect of hair and/or personal hygiene.
(b)
Lack of concern for dress.
(c)
Bodily movement slowed, decrease in gestures, stooped and bent
posture.
(d)
(3)
Change in work habits.
(a)
Lowered quality/quantity.
(b) Inconsistent work pace. Pace of work is likely to change frequently,
without apparent reason.
(c)
Compulsive work.
(d)
Lack of interest in work.
Changes in usual patterns of behavior.
(4)
(a)
Loss of interest in recreation/hobbies.
(b) Loss of interest in people. The individual may avoid family and
friends; may have a decreased sexual drive.
MD0549
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