Question

Jacob thought he had a stable job, good income, and secure retirement until the company he worked for merged with another company and he was laid off from his job. He felt desperate and panic began to grow about finding new employment. Jacob began to feel hopeless and depressed about his prospects. However, within about 6 months, he found a new job, got back on track with his finances, and was making the best of his situation. What diagnosis would best fit Jacob's mental state during this time?

a) Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
b) Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
c) Panic Disorder
d) Adjustment Disorder

Answer 1

Jacob's mental state during this time can be diagnosed as Adjustment Disorder.

Step-by-step explanation:

The diagnosis that best fits Jacob's mental state during this time is d) Adjustment Disorder. Adjustment Disorder is a psychological condition that occurs when an individual has difficulty coping with a stressful life event or change. It is characterized by significant emotional and behavioral symptoms that may develop within three months of the stressful event and typically resolve within six months after the event has ended.

In Jacob's case, the merger of his company and subsequent job loss could be considered the stressful life event that triggered his adjustment disorder. His feelings of desperation, panic, hopelessness, and depression are common symptoms of adjustment disorder. However, it is important to note that within about six months, Jacob was able to find a new job, get back on track with his finances, and make the best of his situation, indicating that his adjustment disorder resolved after the stressful event passed.