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    Ati RN Mental Health 2023 - Coker U BSN Proctored Exam

    A nurse is providing teaching about self-care behaviors to a client who has major depressive disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Introduction: Self-care for major depressive disorder emphasizes social integration and the active utilization of coping strategies to counteract the isolation and functional impairment associated with profound depressive episodes. A. Avoiding talking about upsetting events is a form of emotional suppression that can hinder the therapeutic process. In the context of depression, discussing stressors with a professional or support system is essential for cognitive restructuring and emotional processing, whereas avoidance often leads to increased psychological distress and unresolved conflict. B. Attending a support group indicates an understanding of the need for social support and external engagement. Support groups provide validation, reduce the sense of isolation common in major depression, and encourage the client to engage in healthy interpersonal interactions, which are vital for long-term recovery and symptom management. C. Staying in bed during periods of exhaustion can exacerbate the symptoms of depression by promoting social withdrawal and physical inactivity. Behavioral activation, which involves maintaining a regular schedule and engaging in small tasks even when energy is low, is a key component of effective self-care for depressive disorders. D. Avoiding crying in front of others suggests a perceived need to mask emotions, which can impede the development of a supportive environment. Expressing emotions is a healthy part of the healing process; suppressing them can increase the burden of the illness and prevent loved ones from understanding the client’s true state.

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