Test Your Knowledge

Patients who feel depressed for any length of time or who feel that life has gradually become less pleasurable are urged to see a physician. The physician will perform a complete physical examination and compile a thorough medical history of the patient. Several questions are likely to be asked of the patient, including:

• What are some of the symptoms the patient is experiencing?
  
  
• When did symptoms first occur?
  
  
• Does the patient have a history of feeling depressed at certain times of the year?
  
  
• Have seasonal symptoms been present for at least two consecutive years?
  
  
• Does the patient spend a lot of time in the sun?
  
  
• Is the lighting in the patient’s home inadequate?
  
  
• Does depression typically lift during certain seasons of the year?