Behavioral Science

22 Deja Review: Behavioral Science
What is the difference between
bereavement and major depression?
How long does bereavement last?
Bereavement tends to be less severe
in symptoms and less pervasive
(ie, centers only around the loss).
It is also self-limited and has a shorter
duration.
However, major depressive episodes
may be superimposed onto, or
precipitated by a major loss with
bereavement.
Normal bereavement should begin to
resolve within a few months, though
some grief may never go away.
A DSM-IV-TR diagnosis of major
depression should not be made within
the first 2 months after a loss.
Table 3.1 Differences Between Bereavement (Normal Grief) and Major Depression
(Abnormal Grief)
Bereavement
Depression
Minor sleep disturbances
Some feelings of guilt
Illusions
Expressions of sadness
Minor weight loss (8 lb)
Poor grooming
Few attempts to return to normal
routine
Severe symptoms subside in
Severe symptoms continue for
2 months
Moderate symptoms subside in
Moderate symptoms subside in
1 month
Tx: support groups, increased
contact with physician, counseling,
short-acting sedatives if needed
Abbreviation: Tx, treatment.
Tx: may include antidepressants,
psychotherapy, antipsychotics,
and electroconvulsive therapy