A bereaved man with AIDS who lost his twin brother a month ago; which statement should cause concern?

• A. Lately I've been feeling that life isn't that great.
• B. I feel lucky to be alive.
• C. I have a plan for seeing friends this week.
• D. I'm thinking about getting back to work.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is recognizing signs of depression and potential suicide risk in someone facing bereavement and a serious illness. Expressing that life isn’t that great can signal hopelessness and diminished mood, which, in this context, may indicate emerging depressive symptoms or suicidal thoughts that require a safety assessment and supportive intervention. In contrast, statements about feeling lucky to be alive, plans to see friends, and thoughts about returning to work point to gratitude, social connection, and continued functioning—protective factors that suggest coping and resilience rather than acute risk. So, the remark about life not being that great is the one that should prompt concern and a closer check on their mental state. If there are any thoughts of harming oneself, that would necessitate immediate action and support.