Damon has been depressed for over five years. Two years ago, a psychologist diagnosed him with dysthymic disorder. For the last 3 weeks, his depressive symptoms have exacerbated to the point that he is experiencing psychomotor retardation, increased sleep problems, loss of appetite and anhedonia. Damon is most likely experiencing which of the following?

Question

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Damon's symptoms suggest he is experiencing "double depression," which occurs when a person with dysthymia (a persistent, long-term form of depression) develops a major depressive episode on top of their chronic condition. The exacerbation of symptoms such as psychomotor retardation, increased sleep problems, loss of appetite, and anhedonia indicates a major depressive episode in addition to his underlying dysthymic disorder.

Damon Has Been Depressed for Over Five Years