Risk and Resilience

Assessing a person from a risk and resilience framework helps see both the risk and the strengths and offers a more balanced appraisal. PROZAC DIARY does not emphasize strengths and resources; it is written in language symbolic of Lauren’s depression. Indeed, Lauren states that her creative writing is inspired by her depression; therefore, it is weighted to this account. Despite this slant, Lauren presents with many protective factors, as well as risk.

Risk and Resilience Assessment for the Onset of Depression

RISK

*Biological Factors
Female gender
Family history of mental illness

*Social Factors
Emotional abuse by Lauren’s mother (harsh and critical)
Parental divorce (not clear when this occurred relative to depression but assumed it was before depression started)

PROTECTIVE

*Psychological Factors
Leadership as a class president and leader of the school band (before age 12)

*Social Factors
Financial well-being
Participation in extra-curricular activities (music, dance, ice-skating, horseback riding)

Risk and Resilience Assessment for the Course (Adjustment or Recovery) of the Depression

RISK

*Biological Factors
Early onset

*Psychological Factors
Multiple episodes (and hospitalizations)
Residual symptoms
Co-morbid disorders (history of anorexia and cutting; current presence of obsessive-compulsive disorder)

*Social Factors
Lack of social support network
Poor employment history

PROTECTIVE

*Biological Factors
Intelligence

*Psychological Factors
Insight
Creativity (writing)

*Social Factors
Educated (bachelor’s degree from prestigious university
Financial support from family (this is assumed)