What should a social worker assess first when a middle school youth reports trouble sleeping and concentrating after their parents' separation?

When a middle school youth reports trouble sleeping and concentrating, especially following significant events such as their parents' separation, assessing for depression becomes a priority. This is because sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating are common symptoms of depression, which can often arise in response to stressful life changes, including family disruptions.

In this context, recognizing symptoms of depression is crucial for developing appropriate interventions and support strategies. Early identification allows for timely therapeutic options, which can significantly improve the youth's emotional wellbeing and academic performance. Additionally, it is important to address mental health comprehensively, as children often experience emotional responses to familial changes that may manifest as depression.

While other areas such as substance abuse or child abuse may also be pertinent in a broader assessment, the immediate symptoms presented by the youth strongly point towards potential depressive issues. Furthermore, referring the student for sleep medication without assessing for underlying psychological conditions would not be an appropriate first step, as it does not address the root of the problem and may overlook necessary critical support.