A caseworker's client who struggles with depression and anxiety is most likely to be diagnosed with which of the following psychological disorders?

• A. Generalized Anxiety Disorder with comorbid Major Depressive Disorder
• B. Schizophrenia
• C. Antisocial Personality Disorder
• D. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key symptoms described in the problem: the client struggles with both depression and anxiety. This suggests the presence of more than one psychological condition occurring together, known as comorbidity.
2. Step 2: Review the definitions of the disorders listed: Schizophrenia involves psychosis and disorganized thinking, which is different from anxiety and depression symptoms; Antisocial Personality Disorder is characterized by disregard for others and rule-breaking behavior; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
3. Step 3: Recognize that Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry and anxiety about various aspects of life, while Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) involves persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.
4. Step 4: Since the client shows symptoms of both anxiety and depression, the most fitting diagnosis is GAD with comorbid MDD, meaning both disorders are present simultaneously.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct diagnosis is Generalized Anxiety Disorder with comorbid Major Depressive Disorder, as it best explains the combination of symptoms described.