VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
The patient's symptoms suggest a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), characterized by a persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and feelings of worthlessness.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient's symptoms align with the diagnostic criteria for MDD. A comprehensive treatment approach for MDD typically involves a combination of pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), are commonly used to manage symptoms of depression.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Antipsychotics are not typically the first-line treatment for depression, although they may be used in combination with antidepressants in treatment-resistant cases or in patients with co-existing psychotic symptoms.
**Option B:** Mood stabilizers, such as lithium, may be used in patients with bipolar disorder or in cases of treatment-resistant depression, but they are not the primary treatment for MDD.
**Option C:** Benzodiazepines can be used in the short-term management of anxiety symptoms associated with depression, but they are not a primary treatment for MDD.
**Option D:** Opioids are not indicated for the treatment of depression and can even exacerbate symptoms of depression.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When treating patients with depression, it is essential to monitor for suicidal ideation, particularly in the initial stages of treatment, and to adjust the treatment plan as needed to minimize the risk of relapse.
**Correct Answer:** C.