A 22-year-old female with PCOS reports ongoing feelings of sadness and lack of interest in activities she previously enjoyed. She has difficulty sleeping and has noticed significant weight changes. What could be her potential diagnosis and next steps?
This patient's symptoms suggest a mood disorder, potentially major depressive disorder (MDD). Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing depressive and anxiety disorders due to the hormonal imbalances and related symptoms such as weight gain and hirsutism. The next steps would be to conduct a thorough mental health evaluation, potentially including a validated screening tool like the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). If the diagnosis of MDD is confirmed, treatment may involve psychotherapy, medication, or both.