What should be observed when assessing for recent changes in a client?

Observing body language and stability is crucial when assessing recent changes in a client, especially in the context of perinatal mental health. Nonverbal cues, such as posture, facial expressions, and movements, can provide significant insights into a client's emotional state and wellbeing, which may not be conveyed through words alone. Stability refers to both emotional and physical aspects, including the client's ability to maintain a stable mood and coping mechanisms during potentially stressful periods, such as pregnancy or postpartum.

This observation can reveal underlying issues that the client may not openly discuss, such as anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. Therefore, thorough assessment entails not just listening for verbal communication but also closely observing body language, which can indicate a range of emotions from distress to happiness, and can highlight changes compared to the client’s baseline behavior.

Body language can often convey more about a person's feelings and mental state than their words, making this approach essential in a comprehensive assessment. In contrast, focusing solely on verbal communication, financial status, or past relationships would provide an incomplete picture of the client's overall situation and mental health status.