A factory abruptly closes during hard economic times. An office worker initially tries to take it in stride, begins the job search, and networks with peers. Six weeks later, he has not received a single call-back from a prospective employer

Question

He cannot sleep, is irritable, does not want to interact with his family or peers, paces frequently, and spends several hours most days alone in a local bar. Bills are piling up. He has given up applying for jobs. Which short-term indicator would be most important at this time? a. Patient sleeps at least 6 hours per night.
b. Patient no longer goes to bars each day.
c. Patient no longer paces regularly.
d. Patient considering jobs to apply for.

Answer 1

A
Resumption of normal sleep patterns suggests that depression is improving, and the increased rest should enable him to begin to cope more effectively. Reductions in pacing and going to the bar may either be a positive indicator or mean that the individual has become more immobilized. Considering jobs to apply for indicates he is moving toward more adaptive coping but not necessarily that he is making effective coping efforts.