Which term describes a lowering or decrease of activity functioning with symptoms such as lack of interest in life, insomnia, and loss of appetite?

• A. Depression
• B. Paranoia
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Dehydration

Answer: (A)

The symptoms described—a lowering of energy and participation in activities, along with lack of interest, insomnia, and loss of appetite—point to a mood-based condition where motivation and daily functioning are reduced. This pattern is characteristic of depression, a mood disorder that includes persistent sadness or diminished interest in activities, plus vegetative symptoms like sleep and appetite changes and lower energy levels.

Paranoia involves persistent distrust or unfounded beliefs about others, which isn’t described by these symptoms. Hypokalemia is a low potassium state that mainly causes physical signs like weakness or heart rhythm changes, not a primary pattern of decreased interest and mood. Dehydration leads to thirst, dry skin, and other bodily signs rather than a primary mood or interest change.

So, the term that best describes a lowering of activity functioning with these symptoms is depression.