This comprehensive four-program series deals with depressive and bipolar disorders as well as antidepressants and mood stabilizers.

DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS, Part 1
Begins by presenting the symptoms of major depressive disorder or MDD, and dysthymic disorder. Examines the epidemiology of MDD, focusing on various biological theories. Interviews with individuals suffering from MDD and their families are interspersed throughout. 29 minutes

DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS, Part 2
Using a combination of and didactic material and interviews with individuals suffering from depression, this program discusses two major psychological theories of the illness: "life events and stress" theory, and cognitive theory. Notes various barriers to treating depression, then discusses treatment modalities including medication, electroconvulsive therapy and short-term psychotherapy - interpersonal, cognitive and marital. 28 minutes

BIPOLAR DISORDERS
Defines bipolar disorder and illustrates the symptoms present during a manic episode and hypomania. Describes and discusses Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder, mixed episode, "rapid cycling" and cyclothymia. Discusses the epidemiology of bipolar disorder and the treatment including mood stabilizers, family education, and short-term psychotherapy. 29 minutes

ANTIDEPRESSANTS AND MOOD STABILIZERS
Discusses the groups of medications used in the treatment of depression and bipolar disorders, theories of how they work within the brain, and how they affect behavior. Addresses significant issues facing the caregiver who administers such medications including special considerations in administration and observation for side effects.
24 minutes