En 09-Meredith Case Study

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En 09-Meredith Case Study

Question 1

Primarily, information from Meredith’s intake form suggests that she might have somatization disorder. Primarily, this disorder involves a chronic condition that manifests physical symptoms that may affect multiple parts of the body. However, it is never possible to establish the physical cause of the symptoms. People suffering from this condition complain of physical distress, such as chronic pain, complications with the reproductive, nervous, and digestive system. Normally, these symptoms interfere with the relationships and work of the affected person.

Based on the findings established above, it would be advisable for the clinician to examine Meredith and attempt to identify some of the following symptoms. Meredith explains that she has been experiencing migraines and problems with her reproductive system (“serious cramps”). Furthermore, it is notable that Meredith preferred not to comment on her sexual history. The clinician in this case should attempt to get information from the patient regarding her sexual history. Normally, somatization disorder leads to an inhibited desire to engage in sexual activity (Smith, Monson, & Ray, 2006). It is most likely that Meredith will admit, that she has a reduced desire to engage in sexual activity and should be diagnosed with somatization disorder. Data from Meredith’s intake form indicates problems with her family relationships and work. All these symptoms show that she is suffering from somatization disorder.

Question 2

Meredith has openly admitted that she indulges in alcohol consumption. Therefore, one question in her history should be enquired, whether Meredith began to consume alcohol prior to or after she began manifesting the symptoms. An answer to this question will establish whether alcohol is a cause or an effect of the disorder.

Question 3

It is crucial to understand that somatization disorders are more prevalent among people, who abuse alcohol and drugs. However, alcohol and drugs may also be the cause and effect factors. This implies that alcohol may be the cause of Meredith’s condition or may have resulted from it. Therefore, the clinician on enquiring Meredith’s alcohol use would help to establish whether the alcohol is a cause or an effect of the drug.

Question 4

Information on Meredith’s eating and sleeping habits, as well as stress, would indeed prove relevant to the clinician. These are among the factors that influence the health of a patient suffering from somatization disorders. Recovering from this disorder requires the patient to keep to a good diet, have enough time to sleep, and avoid stress (Smith, Monson, & Ray, 2006). However, failure to eat properly, sleep and keep from stress will only aggravate the situation by making the condition even worse. For example, stress is known to cause back pain, tiredness, chest pain and more. These are all symptoms of somatization disorder. Therefore, information on Meredith’s eating, sleeping habits and stress would prove relevant to the clinician.

Question 5

The clinician in this scenario would be well advised to explore the conditions at Meredith’s home and workplace. The fact that Meredith’s father is an alcoholic may have a straight connection with the patient’s indulgence into the habit. Furthermore, her relations with the rest members of the family and her colleagues also play an important role in her current psychological state. Being loaded with lots of demands at home and work can lead to stress.

Question 6

If Meredith had reported that her friends described her as crazy, unable to pay attention, hyperactive, and talking too fast, I would have been prompted to explore the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome (ADHD). These reference qualities are all common symptoms of a patient suffering from ADHD (Rufo-Campos, 2005).

Question 7

Co-occurring disorder implies a condition where a person’s lifestyle is affected by his or her dependence on chemicals and psychiatric or emotional illness. On the other hand, a single diagnosis occurs when the patient’s symptoms or current state only point out one particular illness or disorder. Information on Meredith’s current condition states that she is dependent on alcohol, especially when she wants to sleep. Her other symptoms suggest that she is suffering from somatization disorder. Upon analyzing these two factors, the clinician should be able to conclude that Meredith is suffering from a co-occurring disorder.

Question 8

If Meredith is not using pronouns, she is exhibiting signs of slurred speech. Problems with speech are usually identified with this disease. The clinician would be well advised to perform tests with a view certifying the above hypothesis. Schizophrenia is usually related with substance abuse. Since Meredith has an alcohol problem, it is most likely that she would be suffering from the condition of alcoholic intoxication as well. Substance abuse is extremely dangerous, and Meredith should be counseled so that the root of her problem is dealt with appropriately. The clinician should encourage her to seek for help and diagnose her, as early as possible, to higher the chances for full recovery.

Furthermore, the clinician should explore the history and current state of Meredith’s family. In other words, the clinician should establish whether the environment in the patient’s home is suitable for good relations and connection with the family. Meredith complains that she is not comfortable with the idea about her family, found out by Andy. This nervousness could be generated by a lack of connection with the family members.

Reference

Rufo-Campos, M. (2005). Attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome. Neurología : Publicación Oficial De La Sociedad Española De Neurología, 20, 4, 199-200.

Smith, G. R., Monson, R. A., & Ray, D. C. (2006). Psychiatric consultation in somatization disorder: A randomized controlled study. The New England Journal of Medicine, 314, 22, 1407-1413.

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