Question

Nina is trying to come up with a diagnosis for her patient, who seems to have symptoms that are similar to those of depression and mania but that are not so intense or severe. Her patient is probably suffering from _____ disorder.

Answer 1

Nina's patient is probably suffering from cyclothymic disorder, a mood disorder with less severe symptoms than those of major depression or bipolar disorder, which can still impact daily life.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nina's patient, who shows symptoms that resemble a milder form of depression and mania, is likely suffering from cyclothymic disorder. Cyclothymic disorder is a mood disorder that is characterized by chronic, fluctuating mood disturbances involving numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms that are less severe than those that occur in bipolar disorder. Although not as intense as major mood disorders, cyclothymia can still significantly impact an individual's daily life and warrants professional attention.

The mood disorders encompass a range of mental health disorders including major depression, dysthymic disorder, and bipolar disorder, which is previously known as manic depression. It's important to diagnose and treat these conditions appropriately, as they represent some of the most common causes of illness-related hospitalization in the U.S. and can severely affect an individual's quality of life.