Question

After her divorce, Megan has felt down and depressed more days than not for almost two years. Although her depression would not be considered intense, and she has been able to go to work and take care of her two children, she has felt fatigued and dejected much of the time. Her self-esteem is low, and she does not seem to take much pleasure in her accomplishments at work or in socializing with her friends. When one of her friends convinces Megan to see a psychologist, this psychologist diagnosed Megan with a ____.

a) Major Depressive Disorder
b) Bipolar Disorder
c) Generalized Anxiety Disorder
d) Dysthymia
e) Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Answer 1

Megan's chronic state of depression that is less severe but lasting almost two years suggests a diagnosis of dysthymia, which is a long-term, persistent form of depression with symptoms including sadness, low self-esteem, and fatigue.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the information provided about Megan's symptoms, the psychologist's diagnosis for Megan is most likely dysthymia. Dysthymia, now known as Persistent Depressive Disorder, is characterized by a chronic state of depression. Individuals with dysthymia experience symptoms that are less severe than those of Major Depressive Disorder, but the symptoms are more enduring and can last for years. These symptoms include feelings of sadness, low self-esteem, fatigue, and a lack of pleasure in activities. Unlike Major Depressive Disorder, these individuals are often able to function in their daily activities, albeit with a general sense of unhappiness or a lack of fulfillment.

In Megan's case, having felt down and depressed more days than not for almost two years fits the timeline required for a diagnosis of dysthymia. Furthermore, the fact that her symptoms are not considered intense and that she has been able to continue working and caring for her children suggests that her depression is chronic and less severe than major depression, which would be associated with more intense symptoms and greater impairment. Thus, option d) Dysthymia is the appropriate answer.