Bereavement/Loss

Question 1

62 yo requests antidepressant. Spouse died 6 weeks ago. Crying spells, decreased appetite, poor sleep. Continues to see friends, no SI. Family hx of depression, no prior depressive episodes. Diagnosis and plan?

Answer 1

bereavement; assure patient of no pathology

Question 2

Which of the following factors has the most evidence to support its protective effect in bereavement following the loss of a spouse?

Answer 2

quality of social support of the bereaved

Question 3

Most likely to increase risk of impairment after bereavement in 80 yo?

Answer 3

significant depressive symptoms shortly after the loss