Which depression subtype is more prevalent at higher latitudes among younger individuals and is associated with cravings for sweets?

The correct choice is seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is particularly prevalent at higher latitudes, especially during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. This condition typically affects younger individuals more frequently, as they may be more susceptible to changes in light exposure. People with SAD often experience symptoms that align with seasonal changes, including low energy, changes in sleep patterns, and a specific craving for carbohydrates or sweets, which can lead to increased weight gain during these months.

In seasonal affective disorder, the reduced levels of sunlight are thought to disrupt the body's internal biological clock and lead to imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, which takes a significant role in mood regulation. The craving for sweets can be linked to the body's attempt to balance mood through the consumption of carbohydrates, which can increase serotonin levels in the brain, providing some relief from depressive symptoms.

The other types of depression mentioned in the remaining choices have different characteristics. Atypical depression may present with mood reactivity and increased appetite but is not directly related to seasonal variations in light. Persistent depressive disorder is characterized by chronic symptoms of depression over a longer duration but does not specifically correlate with environmental factors or cravings for sweets in the same way SAD does. Major depressive disorder encompasses a