Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

When a client abruptly stops medication following a significant loss, what psychological process is she most likely experiencing?

1. Dealing with bereavement

2. Struggling with denial

3. Adapting to change

4. Experiencing a mental breakdown

The correct answer is: Dealing with bereavement

When a client abruptly stops medication following a significant loss, it suggests that she is grappling with the emotional and psychological impact of that loss, which is a key feature of dealing with bereavement. Bereavement encompasses the grief and mourning that individuals experience after losing someone or something important to them. During this time, clients may feel overwhelmed by their emotions and may make impulsive or uncharacteristic decisions, such as discontinuing medication, as part of their coping process. This behavior may indicate a struggle to manage the intense feelings associated with grief, such as sadness, anger, or confusion, which can interfere with their ability to maintain their usual routines and treatment plans. The act of stopping medication in the context of such emotional upheaval is not uncommon, as individuals may seek to numb their pain or may feel disconnected from their treatment goals during this period of significant emotional distress. Understanding this context helps in providing appropriate support, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to help the client navigate their grief while maintaining their mental health stability.