Social Work License Exam Study Guide Updated Fall 2021/2022; Distinction level solution guide.

Social Work License Exam Study Guide Types of Mood Disorders – Dysthymic Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder Dysthymic Disorder – 1. Dysthymia is a type of low-grade depression, 2. Dysthymia is a chronic long-lasting form of depression sharing many characteristic symptoms of major depressive disorder. 3. These symptoms tend to be less severe but do fluctuate in intensity and 4. To be diagnosed, an adult must experience 2 or more of the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder for at least two years. *Children - symptoms must be present for at least one year. Major Depressive Disorder – 1. Presence of one (or more) major depressive episodes (experiencing at least 4 of the symptoms listed below everyday) lasting at least 2 straight weeks within a 6 month period. 2. Symptoms include: trouble sleeping, sleeping too much, irritability, isolation, loss of appetite, weight gain, tearfulness, loss of interest in activities, headaches, body aches, suicidal ideations, lack of ability to concentrate, feelings of hopelessness and despair. 3. The person's symptoms are a cause distress or difficulty in functioning at home, work, or other important areas (social, occupational, recreational). 4. The person's symptoms are not caused by substance use (e.g., alcohol, drugs, medication) or a medical disorder. Bipolar Disorder – 1. Formerly referred to as "Manic Depression", 2. Bipolar is similar to depression but is characterized by the presence of manic episodes in addition to depression. 3. Manic episodes include: euphoria, racing thoughts, excessive talking, less need for sleep, impulsiveness, and hallucinations (bipolar with psychotic features). Clients may "cycle". Types of Psychotic Disorders – 1. Schizophrenia 2. Schizoaffective Disorder 3. Schizophreniform Schizophrenia – 1. Schizophrenia is described as a psychiatric diagnosis 2. Describes a mental illness characterized by impairments in a person's perceptions or expression of reality. Schizophrenia - Symptoms include: Bizarre speech & appearance Delusions Hallucinations (auditory, visual, olfactory, gustatory, and tactile) Disorganized speech Grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior Flat affect Paranoia Loss of Interest in personal hygiene Schizophrenia: Positive Symptoms – Thought Broadcasting Delusions Ideas of reference Ideas of persecution Delusions of grandeur Hallucinations Schizophrenia: Negative Symptoms – Alogia - Delayed responses to questions comments Anhedonia - inability to experience pleasure Flat affect - monotone voice, absence of facial expressions Social Withdrawal Declining ability to care for self Catatonia Schizophreniform –