Which mood disorder is described as a milder, chronic form of depression, often referred to as dysthymia?

Which mood disorder is described as a milder, chronic form of depression, often referred to as dysthymia?

• A. Bipolar Disorder
• B. Dysthymia
• C. Seasonal Affective Disorder
• D. Catatonic Depression

Answer: (B)

The description targets a mood disorder that is a long-lasting, milder form of depression. Dysthymia, now labeled persistent depressive disorder in DSM-5, is characterized by a depressed mood most days for a very long period—typically at least two years in adults (one year in children/adolescents)—with fewer symptoms than a major depressive episode. This chronic, lower-intensity pattern distinguishes it from major depression, which involves more severe symptoms and shorter, discrete episodes. The other options don’t fit: bipolar disorder involves manic or hypomanic episodes, seasonal affective disorder centers on mood changes tied to seasons, and catatonic depression features distinctive psychomotor symptoms rather than just a persistent low mood. So the milder, ongoing depression described best matches dysthymia.

The description targets a mood disorder that is a long-lasting, milder form of depression. Dysthymia, now labeled persistent depressive disorder in DSM-5, is characterized by a depressed mood most days for a very long period—typically at least two years in adults (one year in children/adolescents)—with fewer symptoms than a major depressive episode. This chronic, lower-intensity pattern distinguishes it from major depression, which involves more severe symptoms and shorter, discrete episodes. The other options don’t fit: bipolar disorder involves manic or hypomanic episodes, seasonal affective disorder centers on mood changes tied to seasons, and catatonic depression features distinctive psychomotor symptoms rather than just a persistent low mood. So the milder, ongoing depression described best matches dysthymia.