What should a social worker look for when an individual exhibits changes in behavior following a significant life event?

When an individual exhibits changes in behavior following a significant life event, it's crucial for a social worker to recognize and assess for signs of depression or anxiety. These mental health conditions are common responses to stressors, such as loss, trauma, or major transitions, and can manifest through alterations in mood, energy levels, sleep patterns, and social interactions.

Recognizing signs of depression or anxiety enables the social worker to identify the individual’s emotional state and determine the appropriate interventions needed to support them. Early identification of these symptoms can lead to timely referrals to mental health services, therapeutic support, or community resources, ultimately aiding the individual in coping more effectively with their situation.

While other considerations, such as potential substance abuse, underlying medical conditions, and family history of mental health issues, may also be relevant in a comprehensive assessment, the immediate observation of emotional and psychological responses is critical. Therefore, monitoring for signs of depression or anxiety is a vital step in the social work practice after a significant life event occurs.