Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Practice Exam

The correct choice in this scenario is the medication that is most frequently used to manage severe mood disorders, specifically in the context of extreme despair and agitation. This medication is effective in stabilizing mood and reducing the risk of further episodes of depression or mania, which can be particularly crucial for a client who has just been discharged from hospitalization.

When a client presents with signs of extreme despair, there may be concerns about bipolar disorder or severe depressive episodes. Lithium is a mood stabilizer that not only helps in managing manic episodes but also is effective in the treatment of depressive states associated with bipolar disorder. Its role in reducing the frequency and intensity of mood swings makes it a suitable choice for the given symptoms of despair and subsequent agitation.

The other medications listed do serve different purposes:

- Elavil is primarily an antidepressant used for chronic pain and may not provide the immediate stabilization needed for extreme mood changes.

- Ativan is an anti-anxiety medication that can help with agitation but does not address the underlying mood disorder as effectively as lithium.

- Haldol is an antipsychotic that treats severe agitation or psychosis but is less appropriate for mood stabilization compared to lithium.

By choosing lithium, the clinician aims to provide a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses both current