Question

A 49-year-old man with a long history of heavy alcohol use presents with depression and passive suicidal ideation. He asks for benzodiazepines to 'help with the stress'. According to Australian mental health and addiction guidance, what is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Decline benzodiazepines, assess suicide risk, address alcohol dependence and consider psychological therapy and/or antidepressants

Answer

Prescribe benzodiazepines long term for anxiety

Answer

Ignore the alcohol use and focus on antidepressants only

Answer

Discharge without further assessment as there is no active plan

Answer

Immediately admit involuntarily without further discussion

Practice question

A 49-year-old man with a long history of heavy alcohol use presents with depression and passive suicidal ideation. He asks for benzodiazepines to 'help with the stress'. According to Australian mental health and addiction guidance, what is the most appropriate response?