A college senior is struggling with anxiety and depression because he can't find a job. What should the social worker do FIRST?

The rationale for prioritizing the assessment for the risk of suicide is grounded in the fundamental principles of client safety and well-being in therapeutic practice. When a client presents with anxiety and depression, particularly amid significant stressors such as job hunting, there is an inherent need to evaluate the immediate risks associated with their mental health.

Assessing for suicidal ideation or intent allows the social worker to determine whether the client is in a state of crisis that may require urgent intervention. If the assessment indicates any level of suicidal risk, it becomes imperative to address this before exploring coping strategies or referrals. Ensuring that the client is not in danger is paramount and must take precedence over other interventions. By prioritizing safety, the practitioner can effectively create a foundation for further therapeutic engagement and support, addressing both the immediate risk and the underlying issues leading to the client's distress.

The other options, while potentially beneficial for the client’s overall situation, do not take into account the pressing need for a safety assessment. Referring to a career counselor or teaching stress management techniques might be helpful in the long run but are not appropriate first steps without understanding any potential immediate risks to the client's life. Addressing high expectations is important for context but again cannot overshadow the critical need for assessing suicide risk when