Question

In the following scenario, what is the likely reason for Pat’s mood change?

Pat is in the later stages of middle age. She has been in a stable marriage for more than twenty years and enjoys the extra time she can spend with her husband now that the children are grown and require less attention. Pat’s career is also a source of satisfaction. As a fashion designer, she has ample opportunity to exercise her creativity. Lately, though, she has sometimes found herself feeling depressed or anxious. She wonders why.

Pat is concerned about her health.
Pat is having a midlife crisis.
Pat is fearful that her husband will have a midlife crisis and leave her.
Pat is going through menopause.

Answer 1

Answer: Pat is going through menopause.

Explanation: The statement details that Pat is a woman who has a good marriage, a job that fills her with satisfaction, and her children are fulfilled people. Pat seems to be in a good time in her life, but even so, there are times when she feels depressed or anxious. Pat is a woman who is in the last stages of middle age and it is normal for women to show symptoms of menopause at this stage.

Women who are going through menopause may have symptoms of depression and anxiety. Her body temperature rises and there are sudden mood swings.