In the context of depression, what is a common cognitive symptom that may be observed?

Difficulty concentrating is a well-documented cognitive symptom of depression. Individuals experiencing depression often find it challenging to focus on tasks, process information, or make decisions. This cognitive impairment can lead to issues at work or school, as their ability to sustain attention is compromised. Other cognitive aspects may include indecisiveness and memory problems, which further illustrate how depression affects mental functioning.

The other options, while they may relate to different conditions or states of mind, are not characteristic of depression. Increased energy levels and heightened self-esteem typically do not align with the depressive state, as these are more common in conditions like hypomania or mania, which are not associated with depression. Obsessive thoughts might relate more closely to anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorders rather than the cognitive symptoms specifically prevalent in depression. Thus, difficulty concentrating stands out as the most accurate cognitive symptom observed in individuals suffering from depression.