Meet Xavier, a Male Nurse Who Lost His Wife

Xavier is a 32-year-old, African American, widowed male. After the loss of his wife he escaped into his work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CAN) in order to avoid the pain of his loss. However, because of this he also avoided processing the loss of his wife. Approximately six months ago he was laid off from his job after 11 years as a CNA, and as a result he was no longer able to properly care for himself or pay his bills, which resulted in the loss of his housing. Subsequent threats of suicide led to a month long hospitalization, and he was treated for Major Depression. After which Xavier made arrangements to live with a friend, and upon his release from the hospital it was recommended that he continued care in an outpatient setting.

When Xavier’s employment ended that outlet was closed, as well as any support he may have received from his co-workers. He is no longer able to support the lifestyle he once lived due to his loss of employment however, because of his depression he has not been looking for work. After three months, Xavier is beginning to feel like a burden to his friend and is having trouble moving on with his life after recent events noting that he would like to feel like a “real man” again.

What seems to be the core problem?

The core problem Xavier is having stems from his difficulty dealing with his present circumstances (i.e. the loss of his wife and subsequent loss of his employment). He is struggling with controlling his emotions and thoughts to a level that render him functional by society’s standards. His depression is perpetuated by his lack of productivity and his lack of productivity is a direct result of his symptoms of depression.

...

... middle of paper ...

...y. If he can merge his self-concept with what is reality, his anxiety should diminish.

Through therapy, Xavier will become more in contact with his present reality and feel more free and less tied to the past (Corey, 2009). Xavier will also learn that he has the ability to understand and clarify his feelings, paying more attention to internal regulation rather than relying on other people’s judgment. Xavier will become self-reliant, and confident in his abilities and decisions.

After this process of self-discovery, some concrete goals for Xavier may be: to begin applying for jobs and find his own place to live. Doing both may foster independence and self-confidence. Xavier could also become more socially involved by visiting with family and friends more often, or, because Xavier identifies as a Christian, by becoming more involved in the church.