PSYC FPX 3110 Assessment 2

Case Study Analysis: Major Depressive Disorder in Jenny

Jenny, a 35-year-old unmarried woman, presented to the clinic with symptoms that met the criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as per the DSM-5 criteria. To be diagnosed with MDD as per the DSM-5, patients should have at least 5 out of 9 of these particular symptoms for a period of 2 weeks (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Jenny’s complaints of insomnia, tiredness, lack of interest in the activities she would normally have an interest in, weight loss, and trouble concentrating are all included in the diagnostic criteria for MDD (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Also, there were no medical or physical causes identified for her symptoms, so the correct diagnosis was MDD.

Case Study Analysis: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Fred

Fred, who is a bachelor, has been suffering from daily panic attacks ever since a traumatic experience of robbery at gunpoint. His intrusive memories, avoidance of cues, detachment from others, hypervigilance, and reckless behavior fall into the DSM-5 criteria for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Fred’s bus avoidance and dangerous biking behavior exhibit significant changes of arousal and reactivity, as is characteristic of PTSD (Neil Greenberg et al., 2015). Lack of a somatic or substance-based cause for his symptoms confirms the diagnosis of PTSD.

Case Study Analysis: Bipolar I Disorder in Sally

Sally, who is 23 years old, manifests symptoms typical of Bipolar I Disorder, defined by its defining manic episodes. Sally’s grandiosity, reduced need for sleep, and indulgence in high-risk behavior all meet the DSM-5 criteria for a manic episode (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Sally’s symptoms, including her excessive writing, impulsive buying of cars, and grandiose delusions about the quality of her novel, demonstrate extreme impairment in occupational and social functioning, confirming the diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder. There are no physiological or substance-related etiologies for her symptoms, further confirming the diagnosis.

Treatment Recommendations for Fred: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Psychotherapy

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) are indicated therapies for Fred’s PTSD. CBT is intended to modify cognitions and behaviors associated with trauma through a 12-week treatment, teaching people to cope with and reinterpret traumatic experiences (Fortin et al., 2021). IPT seeks to enhance interpersonal functioning and resolve immediate stressors (Bleiberg & Markowitz, 2019).

Both IPT and CBT are found to work in the relief of PTSD symptomatology and global functioning (Mayranezouli et al., 2020). Since both address the interpersonal difficulties as well as Fred’s avoidance coping mechanisms, the two forms of therapy can ameliorate the symptoms of Fred as well as improve his global functioning.

PSYC FPX 3110 Assessment 2:Conclusion

Finally, the case studies highlight the need for accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment approaches in managing mental health conditions. Through adherence to the DSM-5 criteria and evidence-based treatments like CBT and IPT, the clinician can efficiently direct patients like Jenny, Fred, and Sally in symptom control and increased well-being.