Which of the following symptoms most clearly indicates that someone may need mental health treatment?

• A. Occasional nervousness before public speaking
• B. Temporary frustration after a stressful day
• C. Brief periods of excitement about a new project
• D. Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness that interfere with daily functioning

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between normal emotional experiences and symptoms that indicate a potential mental health issue. Normal emotions are typically temporary and situation-specific, such as nervousness before public speaking or frustration after a stressful day.
2. Step 2: Identify symptoms that are persistent and interfere with daily functioning. These symptoms are not just momentary feelings but last over time and impact a person's ability to carry out everyday activities.
3. Step 3: Recognize that persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness are key indicators of possible mental health conditions, such as depression, especially when they disrupt normal functioning.
4. Step 4: Compare the options given: occasional nervousness, temporary frustration, and brief excitement are all normal emotional responses, whereas persistent sadness or hopelessness is a sign that professional mental health treatment may be needed.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the symptom most clearly indicating the need for mental health treatment is the one involving persistent negative feelings that interfere with daily life, as this reflects a deeper psychological issue rather than a normal emotional reaction.