Which symptom is defined as persistent thoughts about death or suicide?

Which symptom is defined as persistent thoughts about death or suicide?

• A. Anhedonia
• B. Recurrent Thoughts of Death
• C. Fatigue
• D. Significant weight change

Answer: (B)

Suicidal ideation is the key here—the presence of ongoing, persistent thoughts about death or suicide. This symptom specifically captures the cognitive content of suicidality, differentiating it from other mood or physical symptoms. The other options describe affective or somatic changes (loss of pleasure, fatigue, weight change) but do not involve thoughts about death or self-harm. When someone has recurrent thoughts of death, it signals a risk that needs safety assessment and appropriate intervention.

Suicidal ideation is the key here—the presence of ongoing, persistent thoughts about death or suicide. This symptom specifically captures the cognitive content of suicidality, differentiating it from other mood or physical symptoms. The other options describe affective or somatic changes (loss of pleasure, fatigue, weight change) but do not involve thoughts about death or self-harm. When someone has recurrent thoughts of death, it signals a risk that needs safety assessment and appropriate intervention.