A nurse is assisting in the care for a client who is exhibiting a depressed mood one week before the start of their menstrual cycle. When collecting data, the nurse should identify that the client is exhibiting manifestations consistent with which of the following disorders?

A. Stimulants. Stimulant intoxication typically causes increased energy, agitation, tachycardia, and paranoia, but it does not usually induce hallucinations to the extent described. While severe stimulant use (e.g., methamphetamine or cocaine) can cause paranoia, the significant perceptual disturbances and visual hallucinations suggest a different category of drugs.
B. Opioids. Opioid intoxication generally leads to central nervous system depression, respiratory depression, pinpoint pupils, and sedation rather than paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic behavior. The described symptoms do not align with opioid use.
C. Hallucinogens. Hallucinogen use, such as LSD or PCP, can cause altered perception, paranoia, visual hallucinations, and erratic behavior. The client’s symptoms—paranoia, visual disturbances, mumbling, and gesturing—are characteristic of hallucinogen intoxication, making this the most likely cause.
D. Anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroid use can lead to mood swings, aggression, and psychotic symptoms in some cases, but it does not typically cause acute hallucinations, paranoia, or perceptual disturbances. The symptoms described do not fit anabolic steroid use.

A. "Persistent depressive disorder is a mild chronic form of depression." PDD, previously known as dysthymia, is a long-lasting depressive condition with persistent low mood for at least two years. Symptoms are less severe than major depressive disorder but are continuous and can significantly impact daily life. While not as acute as major depression, PDD requires management through therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications.
B. "Persistent depressive disorder is characterized by delusions and hallucinations." Psychotic features such as delusions and hallucinations are not typical of persistent depressive disorder (PDD). These symptoms are more commonly associated with major depressive disorder with psychotic features or schizophrenia. PDD primarily involves chronic low-grade depression rather than severe psychotic symptoms.
C. "Persistent depressive occurs shortly after taking or withdrawing from a substance." Substance-induced depressive disorder is a distinct diagnosis that results from drug use or withdrawal. Persistent depressive disorder is not caused by substance use but is a long-term mood disorder that lasts for at least two years. The symptoms are chronic and not directly linked to substance intake or withdrawal.
D. "Persistent depressive is characterized by both manic and depressive episodes." Bipolar disorder, not persistent depressive disorder, is characterized by alternating manic and depressive episodes. PDD involves a chronic, low-level depressive state without manic symptoms. Individuals with PDD may experience periods of worsening depression, but they do not exhibit the high-energy or euphoric states seen in bipolar disorder.