Which disorders commonly affect both younger and older populations?

Anxiety and mood disorders are indeed prevalent among both younger and older populations, making this choice a strong candidate for the correct answer.

Anxiety disorders, which include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, manifest similarly across various age groups. Research indicates that the onset can occur in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood, and they can persist into older adulthood. The experience of anxiety often evolves with age, as individuals may face different life stressors and changes.

Similarly, mood disorders, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, are also found in both younger and older individuals. While symptoms and triggers may vary, the fundamental nature of these disorders remains relevant across the lifespan. Younger people might experience mood disorders due to developmental challenges, whereas older adults may face mood issues linked to aging, loss, and other life transitions.

The other options, while they do include disorders that can affect both age groups, often have varying impacts and prevalence between younger and older populations. For instance, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, while they can occur at any age, often have different age-specific patterns in terms of onset and diagnosis. Eating disorders and personality disorders typically have distinct prevalence rates and characteristics in younger versus older individuals as well. Phobias and PTSD may have