Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What are common symptoms of depression?

1. Increased energy and appetite

2. Withdrawal from activities and altered sleep habits

3. Excessive social interactions

4. Heightened enthusiasm for life

The correct answer is: Withdrawal from activities and altered sleep habits

The presence of withdrawal from activities and altered sleep habits is a common symptom of depression. Individuals suffering from depression often lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, leading to social withdrawal and isolation. This is due to the overwhelming feelings of sadness and lack of motivation that can accompany depressive episodes. Altered sleep habits can manifest as insomnia, where individuals may struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, or as hypersomnia, where individuals may sleep excessively but still feel tired and unrefreshed. Sleep disturbances are critical indicators of depression and can significantly impact overall health and daily functioning. The other choices represent behaviors and feelings that are typically not associated with depression; rather, they may indicate a different emotional state. Increased energy and appetite, excessive social interactions, or heightened enthusiasm for life are more aligned with positive emotional health or even states of elevated mood, such as mania in bipolar disorder. Thus, the choice that identifies common symptoms of depression accurately captures the essence of the disorder's impact on an individual’s emotional and behavioral state.