This essay discusses the mental status assessment of a patient and the recovery-oriented practice for mental health improvement. It focuses on the case study of Lucinda, a 22-year-old woman who has faced difficulties during childbirth and is stressed about her unborn baby as she gets pregnant again. The essay explores the components of the Mental Status Examination (MSE) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) for diagnosis. It also discusses the stress-vulnerability model, contributing factors to Lucinda's mental condition, and recovery-oriented practices such as respect, empowerment, and retaining hope.