What does the acronym SIGECAPS mean for depression screener?

Answer 1

"SIG-E-CAPS"

Originally when a physician would write a prescription, the abbreviation "SIG" would be written which was to mean directions. The "E" CAPS was to remind the prescriber to write

"E nergy" capsules for depression (antidepressants).

Hence: SIG: E. CAPS

There, aren't you glad you know that??

("SIG-E-CAPS") mnemonic explanation: this mnemonic can help you remember the vegetative signs that can be involved in depression.S leep changes: increase during day or decreased sleep at nightI nterest (loss): of interest in activities that used to interest themG uilt (worthless): depressed elderly tend to devalue themselvesE nergy (lack): common presenting symptom (fatigue)C ognition/Concentration: reduced cognition &/or difficulty concentratingA ppetite (wt. loss); usually declined, occasionally increasedP sychomotor: agitation (anxiety) or retardations (lethargic)S uicide/death preocp.

PEARL of WISDOM

QUIRKS" about the ELDERLY and depression.

WHEN DEPRESSED, ELDERLY ARE: MORE LIKELY TO:LESS LIKELY TO: Give somatic complaintsTo directly complain of depressed mood*Feel worthlessness, rather than guiltDemonstrate hypochondriasisHave psychomotor retardation or agitationManifest psychotic delusionsCommit Suicide:

Age > 65 = 13% of pop. but commit 25% of suicides.

Risk factors for suicide: (living alone, male, alcoholism, comorbid physical illnesses)