James R. Whitfield

Dr. Mitchell

Good morning, James. Thank you for coming in today. Can you tell me a little about what brought you here?

Client

My wife suggested I come. I've been having trouble sleeping for about three months now. I wake up around 2 or 3 AM and can't get back to sleep. During the day I feel irritable, and I've been snapping at my kids, which isn't like me.

Dr. Mitchell

I'm sorry to hear that. Has anything significant changed in your life recently?

Client

I was passed over for a promotion at work in November. I've been with the company twelve years. The person who got it has been there three. I know I shouldn't let it get to me, but...

Dr. Mitchell

It sounds like that was a significant blow to your sense of being valued. How has your mood been overall?

Client

Low. Not all the time — weekends are okay when I'm busy with the kids. But Sunday evenings I start dreading Monday. I've called in sick twice this month, which I've never done before.

Dr. Mitchell

Have you noticed changes in appetite or concentration?

Client

Appetite is fine, maybe eating more actually. Concentration is shot. I used to read before bed — now I just stare at my phone. I started having a couple of beers in the evening to take the edge off. My wife noticed.

Dr. Mitchell

How many drinks would you say you're having per week now compared to before?

Client

Before, maybe two or three on a weekend. Now it's probably ten to twelve a week. I know that's not great.

Dr. Mitchell

I appreciate your honesty. Have you had any thoughts of harming yourself?

Client

No. Nothing like that. I have my kids. I just feel... stuck. Like I'm going through the motions.