Which of the following is a warning sign of poor mental health in adolescents specifically related to mood changes?

• A. Persistent withdrawal from activities.
• B. Sleep disturbances.
• C. Increased energy levels without reason.
• D. Lasting changes in mood.

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is recognizing mood-related warning signs in adolescents. Lasting changes in mood directly reflect an ongoing emotional state, such as persistent sadness, irritability, or unstable mood over weeks. When mood remains altered for a prolonged period, it can indicate a mental health concern that deserves attention.

Sleep disturbances, while common with mood issues, describe sleep patterns rather than mood itself, so they’re not the mood-change sign in question. Persistent withdrawal from activities is important and can accompany mood problems, but it’s a behavioral change, not a direct mood state. Increased energy levels without a clear reason points more to possible mania or heightened activation rather than a sustained mood change typical of mood disorders.