Lori has periods of dejection and apathy that are not as severe as are seen in major depression. She also has periods when she abruptly becomes elated and has little need for sleep. Her symptoms never reach the level of psychosis, but the mood swings have been recurrent for over four years. The best diagnosis for Lori is
A) schizoaffective disorder.
B) bipolar I disorder.
C) recurrent dysthymia.
D) cyclothymia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lori's symptoms of periods of dejection/apathy and sudden elated moods are indicative of cyclothymia, which is a type of bipolar disorder. The mood swings in cyclothymia do not reach the severity of manic or depressive episodes seen in bipolar I or II disorders, and there is no psychosis associated with it. Additionally, the recurrent nature of Lori's symptoms for over four years suggests cyclothymia rather than a one-time episode of major depression or mania.

Lori Has Periods of Dejection and Apathy That Are Not