High School

Ted is sleeping a lot, not bathing, avoiding his friends, and not paying attention to his grades. Ted is showing signs of what mental illness?

a) schizophrenia
b) panic attacks
c) depression
d) binge eating disorder

Answer :

The situation described suggests that Ted may be experiencing signs of depression. Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of motivation. Here are some details to help understand why depression is the likely condition in this scenario:

  1. Sleeping a Lot: One of the common symptoms of depression is changes in sleep patterns, which can include sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping.

  2. Not Bathing: A lack of interest in personal hygiene or self-care is often associated with depression. It can happen when someone feels low energy or motivation.

  3. Avoiding Friends: Social withdrawal is another common symptom of depression. People suffering from depression may isolate themselves from friends and family as their interest in social activities diminishes.

  4. Not Paying Attention to Grades: A decreased concentration and lack of interest in things that were once important, like school, are signs of depression.

Why not the other options?

  • Schizophrenia (a): This is a complex mental disorder involving distorted thinking, perception, emotions, and behavior. It often includes hallucinations or delusions, which are not mentioned in Ted's case.

  • Panic Attacks (b): These are sudden episodes of intense fear or anxiety that come with physical symptoms, such as a racing heart or shortness of breath. The scenario does not describe any sudden or severe anxiety.

  • Binge Eating Disorder (d): This disorder involves regularly consuming large amounts of food in a short period and feeling a lack of control during these episodes. There's no mention of eating patterns in Ted's behavior.

Therefore, based on the symptoms described, the most likely mental illness Ted is showing signs of is c) depression.