What is your assessment of John, a 70-year-old male who recently lost his wife and is struggling to eat?

The correct assessment considers John's situation within the context of normal grief, as he has recently experienced the significant loss of his wife. Grieving is a natural response to losing a loved one, and it often includes not only emotional pain but also physical symptoms, such as changes in appetite, energy levels, and interest in daily activities. Since John is struggling to eat two months after his wife's passing, this behavior can be anticipated as part of the grieving process rather than indicative of a mental health disorder.

Normal grief can manifest in various ways, including sadness, yearning for the deceased, and changes in eating patterns. It’s essential to recognize that while these symptoms might cause concern, they do not immediately suggest a diagnosis of major depression unless they persist in intensity and duration beyond the typical grieving period or are accompanied by other debilitating symptoms.

This understanding validates John’s experience and highlights the importance of allowing space for grief as a natural process. It is crucial to provide him with support and resources without hastily labeling his reactions as a psychiatric disorder or suggesting medications or immediate counseling unless his symptoms worsen or do not improve with time. This perspective acknowledges the universality of grief while also emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding during a vulnerable time.