Question

Latresha is not hungry, is extremely tired, and doesn't feel like doing much of anything. She often feels that life is just hopeless. These symptoms have been going on for 2 months now. She probably is suffering from which mood disorder? a. generalized anxiety disorder b. bipolar disorder c. major depressive disorder d. obsessive-compulsive disorder

Short answer

Latresha is likely suffering from major depressive disorder.

Step-by-step solution

Identify and Understand the Symptoms

The symptoms described are: not hungry, extremely tired, lack of motivation, feelings of hopelessness, and their persistence for 2 months. Understanding these symptoms is crucial in identifying the mood disorder.

Analyze Each Option

Let's consider each of the given options: - **Generalized anxiety disorder** is characterized by excessive and persistent worry, not necessarily by the symptoms described. - **Bipolar disorder** involves episodes of depression and mania, but no mention of manic episodes is made here. - **Major depressive disorder** includes symptoms like persistent sadness, lack of interest, lack of energy, changes in appetite, and feelings of hopelessness, which align with Latresha's symptoms over a long period. - **Obsessive-compulsive disorder** is characterized by repetitive, unwanted thoughts and behaviors, unrelated to the symptoms described.

Match Symptoms to Disorder

The symptoms described primarily align with major depressive disorder. It's defined by a persistent state of depression lasting more than two weeks, involving feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and changes in appetite.

Conclude the Likely Disorder

Given the persistence and nature of the symptoms, major depressive disorder (c) is the most likely scenario. Latresha's symptoms match the criteria for this specific mood disorder.

Key concepts

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are a category of mental health issues that primarily affect a person's emotional state. Individuals with mood disorders might experience extended periods of extreme happiness, sadness, or a combination of both. Understanding mood disorders is crucial to identifying appropriate treatment and support.

There are different types of mood disorders, but they generally share common traits:

• Persistent emotional states: Extensive periods of emotional highs or lows.
• Impact on daily life: These moods interfere with everyday activities, relationships, and work.
• Variety of symptoms: From lack of interest and energy to shifts in appetite.

Some common types include:

• Major Depressive Disorder: Characterized by a prolonged period of sadness and hopelessness. Symptoms include a lack of interest and overwhelming fatigue.
• Bipolar Disorder: Involves swings between depression and manic episodes, where one may feel unusually high or irritable.
• Dysthymic Disorder: A more chronic form of depression with milder symptoms but lasting longer.

Mood disorders can significantly impact one's quality of life, but recognition and treatment can help manage their symptoms and improve mental well-being.

Psychological Symptoms

Psychological symptoms refer to the emotional and mental experiences that indicate the presence of a disorder or condition. Recognizing these symptoms is foundational for proper mental health support and intervention.

Common psychological symptoms associated with mood disorders include:

• Persistent Sadness: Ongoing feelings of sadness or emptiness that do not seem to have a direct cause.
• Hopelessness: Having a bleak outlook on life, believing that nothing will ever improve.
• Lack of Motivation: Difficulty in initiating or completing tasks that were once enjoyable.
• Changes in Appetite or Weight: Eating much more or much less than usual, leading to significant weight changes.
• Fatigue or Lethargy: Feeling tired all the time, even with adequate rest.

These symptoms can occur in various combinations, and their intensity may vary from person to person. It’s vital to consider them within the context of their duration and impact on daily functioning. Left untreated, they can lead to more severe health issues or complications.

Mental Health Diagnosis

Mental health diagnosis is the process of identifying and categorizing mental health conditions based on symptoms, history, and sometimes physical exams. This step is crucial as it guides the treatment plan and management of the disorder.

Here are some essential components in diagnosing mental health disorders like major depressive disorder:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Gathering detailed personal, medical, and psychological history is vital.
• Symptom Assessment: Evaluating the duration, frequency, and intensity of symptoms helps to pinpoint specific disorders.
• Standardized Criteria: Tools like the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) provide a framework to ensure consistent diagnoses.
• Rule Out Physical Causes: Sometimes, physical health issues can mimic psychiatric symptoms, so medical evaluations are often necessary.
• Interviews: In-depth conversations with mental health professionals help in understanding the individual's experience.

Accurate diagnosis leads to better-targeted interventions, which can greatly improve outcomes in managing mental health disorders. Understanding the process can help individuals and families better navigate their mental health journeys.