Which of the following is an example of a mood disorder?

• A. Major depressive disorder.
• B. Generalized anxiety disorder.
• C. Schizophrenia.
• D. Panic disorder.

Answer: (A)

Mood disorders involve lasting changes in a person’s emotional state that color how they feel, think, and behave over time. Major depressive disorder is a classic example because it centers on a persistent depressed mood and a loss of interest or pleasure, lasting for weeks or longer and significantly impairing daily functioning. The other options point to different kinds of disorders: generalized anxiety disorder focuses on chronic, excessive worry; panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks; and schizophrenia involves psychotic symptoms like delusions and hallucinations. So the example that fits as a mood disorder is major depressive disorder.