Which symptom is commonly associated with major depressive disorder that could affect PT care?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Fatigue and loss of energy
• C. Rapid mood swings
• D. Improved motivation

Answer: (B)

Fatigue and loss of energy are common in major depressive disorder and have direct implications for physical therapy care. People with depression often experience persistent tiredness, a lack of energy, and reduced motivation, which can limit their ability to participate in sessions, sustain effort during exercise, and adhere to a treatment plan. This fatigue isn’t just feeling tired after a long day; it’s a pervasive, impairing state that can slow progress, increase the need for rest breaks, and raise safety concerns during activity. Recognizing this symptom helps PTs tailor plans with graded activity, pacing, and closer monitoring, and it prompts appropriate communication with the patient’s broader healthcare team if depression is present.

While weight changes can occur with depression, they are less specific to the disorder and can be influenced by many factors. Rapid mood swings are more characteristic of mood disorders with mania or mixed features, such as bipolar disorder. Improved motivation would not align with the depressive symptom profile and would not explain PT care challenges.