A 56-year-old psychiatric inpatient has had recurring episodes of depression and chronic low self-esteem.

(A) The nurse should encourage activities gradually, as client’s energy level and tolerance for shared activities improve. (B) Activities that focus on strengths and accomplishments, with uncomplicated tasks, minimize failure and increase self-worth. (C) Asking a client to set a goal to make all decisions about attending group activities is unrealistic, and such decisions are not always under the client’s control; this sets up the client for further failure and possibly decreased self-worth. (D) Encouragement toward independence does promote increased feelings of selfworth; however, clients may need assistance with decision making and problem solving for various situations and on an individual basis.