Chris is in a period of depression. He is feeling low energy and is sleeping more than usual. Chris is responding well to treatment with lithium, which is improving his symptoms. His mother has experienced similar episodes of depression in the past. Which of the following diagnoses is most likely?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chris's positive response to lithium, a mood stabilizer, suggests that he may be experiencing bipolar disorder rather than major depression or dysthymic disorder. Additionally, Chris's mother has a history of similar episodes, which may indicate a genetic predisposition to bipolar disorder. Hypomanic disorder is not a recognized diagnosis; instead, bipolar disorder may involve hypomanic episodes.

Chris Is in a Period of Depression