A client is curious about the impact of chronic stress on the development of depression. Which statement accurately reflects the relationship between chronic stress and depression according to the text?
"Chronic stress can lead to hyperactivity of the HPA axis, resulting in elevated levels of cortisol that can support neuronal growth and survival.".
"Chronic stress can lead to hypoactivity of the HPA axis, resulting in reduced levels of cortisol that enhance neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.".
"Chronic stress can lead to hyperactivity of the HPA axis, resulting in elevated levels of cortisol that can impair neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.".
"Chronic stress can lead to hypoactivity of the HPA axis, resulting in reduced levels of cortisol that improve neurotrophic factors and cognitive function.".
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Chronic stress is known to activate the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, which leads to increased cortisol production. While cortisol is important for various physiological functions, chronic elevation of cortisol due to stress can actually have detrimental effects on the brain. Elevated cortisol levels have been associated with impaired neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons) and synaptic plasticity (the ability of synapses to change and adapt), both of which play crucial roles in maintaining cognitive function and mental health.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is not accurate. Chronic stress typically leads to hyperactivity, not hypoactivity, of the HPA axis, resulting in increased levels of cortisol. The increased cortisol levels can negatively impact neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, which are key factors in depression and cognitive function.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct statement. Chronic stress triggers hyperactivity of the HPA axis, causing elevated levels of cortisol. While cortisol is meant to help the body cope with stress in the short term, chronic elevation can lead to adverse effects on the brain. High cortisol levels have been linked to impaired neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, contributing to the development of depression and cognitive deficits.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is not accurate. Chronic stress tends to lead to hyperactivity of the HPA axis and elevated cortisol levels. Reduced cortisol levels, as suggested in this choice, are not commonly associated with chronic stress and its impact on depression.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Depression is not solely caused by genetic factors. While genetics do play a role in predisposing individuals to depression, it's a complex interplay between genetic susceptibility and environmental influences that contribute to the development of the disorder.
Choice B rationale:
Genetic factors are not minor players in depression. Research suggests that genetics can significantly influence a person's susceptibility to depression. However, environmental factors, such as trauma, stress, and life experiences, also contribute substantially to the onset and course of depression.
Choice C rationale:
The relationship between genetics and depression is not as straightforward as specific genes causing depression independently of environmental factors. Depression is a multifactorial disorder influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct answer. Genetic factors do contribute to an individual's vulnerability to depression. Studies of families, twins, and heritability have demonstrated a genetic component to depression. However, it's crucial to recognize that genetic predisposition interacts with environmental factors. Trauma, loss, chronic stress, and other environmental triggers can precipitate depressive episodes in genetically susceptible individuals.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Bipolar disorder involves both depressive episodes and manic episodes. The client in question denies any history of manic episodes, making bipolar disorder less likely as a diagnosis. Manic episodes are characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity, and risky behavior.
Choice B rationale:
Dysthymia, also known as persistent depressive disorder, involves chronic feelings of sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It is a milder form of depression that persists for at least two years in adults. The client's persistent feelings of sadness align more closely with the criteria for dysthymia.
Choice C rationale:
Substance-induced mood disorder occurs when the client's mood disturbances are a direct result of substance use or withdrawal. Since there is no mention of substance use or withdrawal in the client's history, this choice is less relevant to the scenario.
Choice D rationale:
Adjustment disorder is characterized by the development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable stressor, and these symptoms typically resolve within six months of the stressor's resolution. In the scenario, there is no indication of a recent stressor, and the client's symptoms seem to be chronic rather than time-limited, making adjustment disorder less likely.
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