A 24-Year-Old Man Arrives to the Office Due to Mood

A 24-year-old man arrives to the office due to mood swings. For the past two months, he has been melancholy, irritated, and nervous virtually every day. The patient struggles to get out of bed in the mornings and to stay focused at work. He has no medical issues and does not use any drugs. The patient consumes 3 to 4 beers every day, with more on weekends. The doctor educates the patient on the relationship between drinking and mood disturbances. The patient says, "But it truly helps me unwind and relax after a hard day at work, and it makes falling asleep easier. It's also how I spend my weekends with my buddies. I don't see me quitting." Which of the following statements by the physician is the most suitable at this time?

A) "Alcohol is likely making your depression worse.  It will be harder to treat your depression without addressing alcohol."
B) "Although you feel alcohol helps you to relax, I am concerned that you are using it to self-medicate your depression."
C) "I can understand your reasons for using alcohol.  What are the downsides to drinking from your perspective?"
D) "I get it, but there are other, healthier ways to relax.  Would you be willing to discuss those?"
E) "I understand your reasons and see that you are not ready to make a change.  I am here to help when you feel ready."