A client has just been diagnosed as having major depression. At which time would the nurse expect the client to be at highest risk for self-harm?

Choice A reason: Family visits may trigger emotions, but they are not the highest risk period for self-harm. Choice B reason: The highest risk occurs about two weeks after starting antidepressants. At this point, energy and motivation improve before mood fully stabilizes. This creates a dangerous window where the client has enough energy to act on suicidal thoughts. Choice C reason: The first few days after admission are critical for observation, but the risk is not as high as the period after antidepressant initiation. Choice D reason: Anniversaries of significant events can trigger depressive symptoms, but the most consistent and clinically recognized high-risk period is after antidepressant therapy begins.