Two months after knowing that his son was suffering from leukemia, a 45 year old father presents with sleep deprivation, lethargy, headache, and low mood. He interacts reasonably well with others, but has absented himself from work. The most probable diagnosis is:
**Core Concept**
The patient's presentation suggests a psychiatric disorder that is secondary to a significant life event, specifically the diagnosis of his son's leukemia. This is an example of a mood disorder that is triggered by a stressful life event.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient's symptoms of sleep deprivation, lethargy, headache, and low mood are consistent with a diagnosis of depression. The presence of social withdrawal and absenteeism from work further supports this diagnosis. The patient's ability to interact reasonably well with others suggests that his cognitive function and social skills are intact, but his mood has been significantly impacted. The diagnosis of depression is further supported by the fact that it is a common consequence of learning about a serious illness in a family member.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:**
This option is incorrect because the patient's symptoms do not meet the criteria for anxiety disorders, which typically involve excessive worry or fear that interferes with daily life.
**Option B:**
This option is incorrect because the patient's symptoms do not meet the criteria for a psychotic disorder, which typically involve a disconnection from reality and a loss of cognitive function.
**Option C:**
This option is incorrect because the patient's symptoms do not meet the criteria for a dissociative disorder, which typically involve a disconnection from one's thoughts, feelings, or experiences.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When assessing a patient for a psychiatric disorder, it's essential to consider the impact of significant life events, such as the diagnosis of a serious illness in a family member, on their mental health.
**Correct Answer: A. Adjustment Disorder.**