Jose is a Latino client who presents with occupational diffi

Jose is a Latino client who presents with occupational difficulties. He was laid off from a construction job 8 months ago and has been unable to find work. Ever since he lost his job, he has been drinking alcohol heavily throughout the day. He also reports “occasional” marijuana use. Jose recently was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and has to appear in court next month. His wife is angry with him because she depends on him to pick up their 3 children from school, and now he may lose his driver’s license. Jose has always been a hard worker, but he admits that there were times that he often drank alcohol while working on construction jobs to eliminate his stress. He reports having intermittent episodes of anxiety since adolescence. Which specifier might be given when considering Jose’s alcohol use?

A. Mild

B. Moderate

C. With panic attacks

D. None of the above

Solution

Answer: (C) With panic attacks

Based on the information above, Jose\'s symptoms reflect typical properties of panic disorder/agoraphobia. His symptoms are:

1. Episodes of anxiety since adolescence

2. Occupational difficulties

3. Alcohol use disorder

which fulfills the key criteria for panic disorder.