ASWB Bachelor Practice Exam 2026 - Free ASWB Practice Questions and Study Guide

A patient with dysthymic disorder, also known as persistent depressive disorder, experiences chronic depression that lasts for a significant duration, typically for at least two years in adults. This condition is characterized by a depressed mood that occurs most of the day, more days than not, and it often includes symptoms such as low energy, low self-esteem, difficulty sleeping, and a general sense of hopelessness. The persistent nature of these depressive symptoms distinguishes dysthymic disorder from major depressive episodes, which tend to be more episodic.

The symptoms related to trauma or substance use mentioned in the other options, such as hallucinations or drug dependency, although potentially relevant in various mental health contexts, do not typically align with the primary characteristics associated with dysthymic disorder. Eating disorders, while they can co-occur with a variety of mood disorders, are not a defining characteristic of dysthymia itself. Thus, the emphasis on chronic depression on most days for an extended period aligns precisely with the clinical understanding of dysthymic disorder.