Poles Apart: Unipolar vs. Bipolar Depression

Hour 1

1.    Unipolar Depression (UD)
2.    Clinical Definition
3.    Basic Information
4.    Diagnosis of UD
5.    Study of Factors that Cause UD
6.    Study of Other Medical Conditions that Could Occur with UD
7.    Evaluation and Management of UD

Hour 2

1.    Bipolar Disorder (BD)
2.    Clinical Definition
3.    Basic Information
4.    Diagnosis of BD
5.    History and Physical in BD
6.    Genetic, Biological, and Environmental Data on BD
7.    Evaluation in BD

Hour 3

1.    Differentials: BD vs. UD
2.    Differentials: BD, ADHD, CD
3.    Recommended Approaches to BD
4.    Management/Maintenance Treatment to BD

Learning Objectives

1. Identify the basic neurophysiology, pathogenesis, etiology, and diagnosis of affective unipolar disorder/major depressive disorder (UD/MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD).
2. Discuss the involvement of various chemical imbalances in these affective disorders, including neurotransmitters and neurohormones such as serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine and cortisol.
3. List the differential diagnosis of these conditions and the management of both disorders.
4. Describe the spectrum of available pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and experimental therapies for both conditions.