Psychological Health Unlike Physical Health, Psychological Health Multiple Chapters

Psychological Health

Unlike physical health, psychological health cannot be measured by a machine or screened for via a blood test. However, psychological health is absolutely critical to the well-being of patients and cannot be disregarded by a responsible health practitioner. Mental health is composed of emotional health (compassion for others and an understanding that the self is not the center of the universe and a balanced perspective on the world); mental health (resiliency to adversity); and spiritual health (a sense of higher purpose in life) (Hales 2008: 25). However, while mental health is something which may be said to be striven for on a universal level, the manifestations of these components of psychological health are expressed in culturally-specific ways, something which a healthcare practitioner must be mindful of when assessing psychological health in a responsible fashion (Hales 2008: 26).

Positive psychology stresses that it is essential not simply to study psychological states that are considered abnormal and damaged but also those states of being that are optimal and normal, including how characteristics such as resiliency, a sense of purpose, optimism, and a work ethic collectively contribute to a better life (Hales 2008: 27). Understanding why we are not psychologically feeling our best is important and many theorists have offered their unique perspectives on this subject. For example, the theorist Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs suggests that initially physiological needs must be satisfied (hunger and a need for safety, for example) before higher psychological needs can be addressed (Hales 2008: 29). Gratitude, prayer, and a sense of higher purpose are considered necessary for optimal psychological health, even if not everyone is theologically-oriented in their spirituality (Hales 2008: 33). So is having a sense of control over the world: not in an aggressive manner, but having a sense that what one does can have a meaningful effect on others is important -- there must be confidence that actions have an impact, versus a having a sense of hopelessness. A connection with others is also an important component of mental health (Hales 2008: 34).

Despite this universal striving for a state of positive psychological homeostasis, there are many complications and obstacles in the path, particularly for Americans. America has a highly individualistic culture which tends to disdain the need for social support. On campuses in particular, there are stressors which adolescents face, including a culture which makes a normal sleep schedule difficult and a stress upon finding one's self which can make the process of identity formation extremely confusing and anxiety-provoking. Shyness can be a debilitating factor in creating social bonds, and when taken to the extreme it is classified as a disorder called social anxiety.

Psychological disorders which can affect mental health include depressive disorders (which can raise one's risk for developing high blood pressure and heart disease); anxiety disorders (including phobias and OCD); and attention-related disorders. These conditions can be treated with a combination of medicine and psychotherapy, depending upon their specific manifestations and severity. Counselors should…