People who have low energy levels and are less interested in their usual activities and social interactions are said to be suffering from:
a. manic episode
b. obsessive-compulsive disorder
c. depression
d. phobias
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c. depression.
Explanation:
Depression is a mood disorder that affects how people think, feel, and behave. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that a person would typically enjoy. People suffering from depression may experience a wide range of symptoms, including low energy levels, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and disrupted sleep or appetite. They may also withdraw from social interactions and lose interest in hobbies or activities they once found pleasurable.
The lack of interest in usual activities and social interactions is a key symptom of depression, and it is referred to as anhedonia. Anhedonia involves a loss of the ability to feel pleasure or joy from things that were once enjoyable, which can significantly impact a person’s daily life. This emotional withdrawal is often coupled with a feeling of emotional numbness, which contributes to the isolation that many individuals with depression experience.
Unlike a manic episode (a characteristic feature of bipolar disorder), where a person experiences extreme elation or irritability, depression is marked by feelings of sadness or emptiness. It also differs from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which involves intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, and phobias, which involve irrational fears of specific objects or situations.
Depression can affect anyone and is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It can also vary in severity, from mild to major depression, and it is treatable through therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Understanding the symptoms of depression is crucial for early intervention and support.