Caleb has been experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities he once enjoyed, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping for the past two months. Which of the following is the most likely possible diagnosis for Caleb?

• A. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• B. Major Depressive Disorder
• C. Schizophrenia
• D. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the key symptoms Caleb is experiencing: persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping lasting for two months.
2. Step 2: Understand the diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), which typically includes a depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure in most activities for at least two weeks, along with other symptoms such as changes in appetite and sleep disturbances.
3. Step 3: Compare Caleb's symptoms with the criteria for other disorders listed: Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves excessive worry; Schizophrenia includes psychotic symptoms like hallucinations or delusions; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
4. Step 4: Recognize that Caleb's symptoms align most closely with Major Depressive Disorder because of the mood-related symptoms and duration.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most likely diagnosis for Caleb, based on the symptom profile and duration, is Major Depressive Disorder.