Case history
Case history #1
A 25-year-old man reports a 3-year history of hypersomnia, lethargy, lack of motivation, concentration difficulties, and depressed mood that starts acutely in mid-October, gradually worsens during the winter months, and eventually remits in early April. He denies any significant stressors that may precipitate these episodes. In addition, he denies any history of depressive episodes during the spring and summer months. He has never experienced any manic symptoms.
Case history #2
A 36-year-old woman reports a history of recurrent major depressive episodes over the last 15 years. Her depressive episodes follow a seasonal pattern, with her mood becoming more sad and irritable during the winter months. She also tends to become physically inactive, overeats, and usually gains 5.5 to 7.5 kg in weight during these periods. She admits to having fleeting thoughts of suicide but denies any intent or plans to harm herself. She further describes feeling 'charged up' from late spring to late summer, sometimes needing only 3 hours of sleep each night. During this period she has racing thoughts and rapid speech, and becomes involved in an excessive number of projects.
Other presentations
Although less common than presentation of depressive symptoms during the autumn and winter, patients may present with manic or hypomanic episodes during the spring and summer months. Other less common presentations include onset of depressive symptoms during summer months, and hypomanic or manic symptoms during winter months.
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer