Our tacit assumptions about human nature unquestionably influence how we view and serve individuals who seek psychological services.
—M.J. Mahoney
The thoughts and opinions you have about clients will influence your treatment of them. To discover your own assumptions about those with mental health disorders, answer the following questions based on your own thoughts and opinions. There are no right or wrong answers.
- What causes the movement on the adaptive–maladaptive mental health continuum? That is, what motivates people to exhibit maladaptive behaviors?
- How will you measure therapeutic success? Take into account the degree of maladaptation possible.
- Describe your thoughts/beliefs about the following:
a. Mental illness
b. Depression
c. Cutting
d. Anorexia
e. Hoarding
f. Anxiety
g. Rumination
h. Manipulation
i. Passive aggression
j. Bullying
- Are humans trustworthy? Are clients with mental illness trustworthy?
- Are clients with mental illness generally self-centered and selfish or do they have the ability to empathize and show concern for others? Take into account the degree of maladaptation.
- Can clients with mental illness change? Again, take into account the degree of maladaptation present.
- Do you believe that mental illness is prevalent? Why or why not?
Full Answer Section
- Genetics: Some mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, have a genetic component. This means that people who have a family history of these conditions are more likely to develop them themselves.
- Environment: Environmental factors, such as childhood trauma, can also contribute to mental health problems. For example, children who experience abuse or neglect are more likely to develop anxiety or depression later in life.
- Lifestyle: Lifestyle factors, such as substance abuse and poor diet, can also contribute to mental health problems. For example, people who abuse alcohol or drugs are more likely to develop mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety.
- Stress: Stress can also trigger or worsen mental health problems. For example, people who are under a lot of stress are more likely to experience anxiety or depression.
- Personality: Personality traits can also play a role in mental health. For example, people who are more anxious or introverted are more likely to develop mental health problems.
It is important to note that the adaptive–maladaptive mental health continuum is not a linear one. People can move back and forth between adaptive and maladaptive mental health, depending on the factors that are affecting them.
For example, someone who is generally adaptive may experience a period of maladaptive mental health if they experience a stressful life event, such as the death of a loved one. Once the stressful event has passed, the person may return to their normal level of adaptive mental health.
However, if the stressful event is prolonged or severe, the person may continue to experience maladaptive mental health. In this case, it may be necessary for the person to seek professional help.
There are a number of things that people can do to promote adaptive mental health. These include:
- Taking care of their physical health: Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can all help to promote mental health.
- Managing stress: Learning how to manage stress can help to prevent mental health problems from developing or worsening. There are a number of different stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, meditation, and yoga.
- Building strong relationships: Strong relationships with family and friends can provide support and reduce stress.
- Engaging in meaningful activities: Engaging in activities that are meaningful to the person can help to promote a sense of well-being. This could include things like spending time in nature, volunteering, or pursuing hobbies.
- Seeking professional help: If a person is struggling with mental health problems, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help the person to understand their problems and develop coping strategies.
Mental health is an important part of overall health. By taking care of their mental health, people can improve their quality of life and live happier, healthier lives.