When an actively-using, alcohol-dependent client presents with depressive symptoms, what is expected?

The choice indicating that depressive symptoms will significantly improve following detoxification and abstinence is grounded in the understanding of the relationship between substance use and mental health.

When an individual is actively using alcohol and is also experiencing depressive symptoms, these symptoms can be influenced by the substance's impact on brain chemistry and functioning. Alcohol is a depressant, which can exacerbate feelings of depression. Upon cessation of alcohol use and after detoxification, the person's brain has an opportunity to start healing and returning to a more balanced state. This process often leads to an improvement in mood and depressive symptoms as the physiological effects of alcohol diminish.

Furthermore, the successful achievement of abstinence allows for clearer insight into an individual's mental health conditions and facilitates more effective therapeutic interventions. Addressing substance dependence first helps to create a more stable foundation for dealing with underlying mental health issues in subsequent therapy sessions.

Overall, the expectation that depressive symptoms will improve following detoxification is based on the understanding of how substance use disorders interact with mental health symptoms and the benefits of achieving sobriety.