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SIH406: Contemporary Issues
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Table of Contents
Introduction...................................................................................................................... 1
Contemporary Issues in Mental Health Service...............................................................2
Analysis of Core Perspective........................................................................................... 4
The Hypothesis of a Possible Result................................................................................6
Conclusion....................................................................................................................... 8
References.......................................................................................................................9
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Introduction
In the contemporary landscape of the health and social sector, the escalating concerns
surrounding the mental health of young adults stand as a critical issue with far-reaching
implications. This issue demands a thorough exploration of its multifaceted dimensions
and an insightful analysis of potential strategies for service improvement. The
convergence of factors such as academic pressures, digital influences, economic
uncertainties, and the recent global pandemic has underscored the urgency of
addressing mental health challenges among young adults. This report delves into the
key aspects of this issue and proposes a hypothesis for a collaborative care model as a
potential solution to minimize disruption to mental health services
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Contemporary Issues in Mental Health Service
The growing concern over the mental soundness of young people in the health & social
service sector is a crucial current issue that has a big impact on efforts to enhance
services (Crawford, 2022). Due to its effects on individuals, families, and society as a
whole, this topic is particularly important. Insights into how service delivery might be
improved to effectively handle these problems can be gained by evaluating the
numerous components of this issue.
Young adults are more and more likely to have mental health conditions like despair
and anxiety (El-Gabalawy et al., 2015). The severity of these problems has been
exacerbated by elements like academic pressure, social media influence, economic
uncertainty, and the recent worldwide pandemic. This necessitates a thorough method
for the area of mental soundness service enhancement.
The availability and affordability of mental sound care are two factors that require
attention. Due to scarce resources, lengthy waiting lists, and the stigma associated with
requesting treatment, many young adults encounter obstacles while trying to get timely
and appropriate care. Expanding community-based mental health facilities, offering
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online counselling services, and incorporating mental health education into educational
institutions are just a few service enhancement efforts that could be pursued.
The incorporation of technology also offers potential opportunities for service
improvement. By enabling remote consultations, monitoring, and interventions,
telehealth and mobile applications can provide young adults with ongoing support. But
issues including data protection and the potential to widen the digital gap need to be
carefully taken into account.
Given the complexity of mental health concerns, interdisciplinary cooperation is
essential. Collaborations involving psychologists, schizophrenics, social workers,
educators, and even technology specialists could be used to improve services. The
formulation of individualized intervention strategies and a more thorough assessment of
each person's requirements are both guaranteed by the holistic approach.
Preventive actions have a great deal of potential to improve services. Programs
promoting early symptom recognition and lowering stigma could be incorporated into
the curricula of schools and colleges (Entwistle, 2019). Furthermore, peer-led initiatives
and community-based support groups can establish safe spaces for young adults to
share their experiences and seek advice from individuals who have overcome
comparable obstacles.
Last but not least, continuing research and data analysis are essential for seeing
patterns, gauging the success of initiatives, and modifying services as necessary. The
health and social care industry can make sure that young adults get the support they
need to attain their best mental well-being by adopting evidence-based practices and
continuously enhancing service delivery techniques.
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Analysis of Core Perspective
To address the current issue of mental health concerns among young adults, the bio-
psycho-social approach is essential. In this approach, mental health disorders are
examined and treated while taking into consideration the interplay between biological,
psychological, and social factors (Mittal, 2020). To better understand how to tailor
service enhancements to support young adults’ mental conditions, it is possible to study
the effects of this perspective on the way treatment is provided.
The physiological reasons for mental health difficulties are heavily emphasized in the
bio-psycho-social model's biological component (Guldberg, 2020). Neurochemical
imbalances and genetic predispositions can have a big impact on anxiety and
depressive disorders. This viewpoint has an impact on how healthcare is delivered.
Accurate diagnoses are made possible by genetic testing and neuroimaging, which
allows for targeted medication and individualized treatment programs (Patil et al., 2020).
Increased financing for cutting-edge diagnostic tools, specialized education for medical
staff, and investigation into novel biological therapies are a few examples of service
enhancements.
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The model's psychological dimension emphasizes the person's cognitive and emotional
experiences. Key factors to take into account include trauma, problems with self-
esteem, and dysfunctional cognitive processes. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)
and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) are used to implement the bio-psycho-social
approach in the delivery of healthcare. The provision of these therapies in primary care
settings, the expansion of therapist access, and the creation of digital platforms for
supervised self-help activities are all examples of service enhancements.
The social component recognizes the impact of outside variables on mental health. The
existence of social support systems, socioeconomic position, and social stigma all play
important roles. This viewpoint influences the way that care is delivered, emphasizing
community outreach initiatives, group counselling, and family therapy (Walker, 2017).
To improve services, healthcare facilities and community organizations may work
together more closely, mental health awareness campaigns may be supported, and
policies that lessen stigma and promote social inclusion may be promoted.
The bio-psycho-social viewpoint has an important impact on the provision of healthcare.
By doing so, the emphasis is shifted from symptom management alone to a
comprehensive analysis of the person's mental health (McQuay, 2019). Healthcare
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providers can offer more individualized and successful interventions by understanding
how biological, psychological, and social aspects are interrelated.
It can be difficult to put this idea into practice, though. It necessitates additional
resources, education, and a mentality change on the part of patients and medical staff.
It can be challenging to coordinate treatment across several dimensions; as a result, it
is important to communicate clearly and adopt a patient-centred perspective.
The Hypothesis of a Possible Result
Hypothesis: Implementing a Collaborative Care Model to Minimize Disruption in Mental
Care Services for Young Adults
Adoption of a collaborative care model is one possible solution to reduce service
interruption in response to the current issue of escalating mental health challenges
among young adults (Hill, 2018). This strategy aims to address the complex nature of
mental health problems by encouraging cooperation and communication among
different healthcare experts, ultimately improving the effectiveness and efficiency of
care delivery.
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Following the integration theory, the collaborative care model combines primary care
doctors, mental health specialists, social workers, and community support services. This
method's foundations in the bio-psycho-social perspective are in line with the notion that
social, psychological, and biological elements interact to influence mental health issues.
The Collaborative Care Model's potential advantages are revealed by analysis. It begins
by addressing the accessibility issue by integrating mental health treatments into
settings for basic care. Primary care is a perfect entry point for early detection and
intervention for mental health disorders because young adults frequently seek medical
help for physical health difficulties. As a result, there is less stigma attached to seeking
treatment in a specialized mental health clinic, and a more comprehensive approach to
well-being is encouraged.
The Collaborative Care Model also improves information sharing and communication.
Mental health experts are easily accessible to primary care physicians, ensuring an
accurate diagnosis and the right course of therapy (Shah, 2019). Team members
benefit from regular case conferences to review patients' progress and modify treatment
programs as needed.
A continuum of care is also promoted by the concept. As young adults' needs change,
collaborative teams can offer both short-term interventions and long-term management
measures, ensuring that they receive ongoing assistance. It is possible to address
social and environmental factors that contribute to mental health difficulties by
integrating community resources, such as support groups and educational initiatives.
Its difficulties are acknowledged in the evaluation of this possible outcome.
Standardized evaluation tools, common electronic health records, and unambiguous
communication procedures are necessary for productive collaboration. To remove any
remaining barriers, it is crucial to educate healthcare personnel from various
backgrounds in interdisciplinary teamwork and cultural sensitivity.
The Collaborative Care Model, from a theoretical standpoint, is consistent with systems
theory, highlighting the interconnection of many parts within a larger system. By
coordinating efforts and exchanging information, the idea aims to create an effective,
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comprehensive healthcare ecosystem that addresses the different problems relating to
the mental soundness of young people.
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Conclusion
The contemporary challenge of addressing young adults' mental health necessitates a
holistic and multifaceted approach. The bio-psycho-social perspective emerges as a
pivotal lens through which to view mental health disorders, considering the intricate
interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. Furthermore, the hypothesis of
implementing a collaborative care model presents a promising avenue for minimizing
disruptions in service delivery. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing
communication, and promoting comprehensive care, this model aligns with the broader
objective of creating a resilient and supportive framework to address the evolving
mental health needs of young adults.
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References
Crawford, P. (2022) ‘Mental Health Literacy and young people’, Mental Health Literacy
and Young People, 2(5), pp. 1–10. doi:10.1108/978-1-80382-149-820221001.
El-Gabalawy, R., Mackenzie, C.S. and Sareen, J. (2015) ‘Mental Health Service use
among older Canadians with anxiety and comorbid physical conditions’, Aging
& Mental Health, 20(6), pp. 627–636. doi:10.1080/13607863.2015.1033678.
Entwistle, V.A. (2019) ‘Enabling consultations: The facilitative significance of relational
aspects of interpersonal communication’, Health Expectations, 13(1), pp. 1–3.
doi:10.1111/j.1369-7625.2010.00599.x.
Guldberg, K. (2020) ‘The bio-psycho-social-insider model’, Developing Excellence in
Autism Practice, 4(5), pp. 15–22. doi:10.4324/9780429276286-3.
Hill, E.W. (2018) ‘A collaborative pastoral care model’, Journal of Pastoral Care, 55(1),
pp. 69–80. doi:10.1177/002234090105500108.
McQuay, H. (2019) ‘Symptom control’, Journal of Pain and Symptom Management,
6(3), pp. 133–134. doi:10.1016/0885-3924(91)90965-7.
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Mittal, L.P. (2020) ‘Disorders of attachment’, Postpartum Mental Health Disorders: A
Casebook, 5(6), pp. 81–88. doi:10.1093/med/9780190849955.003.0010.
Patil, R., Upaganlawar, A. and Ingale, S. (2020) ‘Pharmacotherapy of neurochemical
imbalances’, Advances in Neuropharmacology, 1(3), pp. 539–572.
doi:10.1201/9780429242717-25.
Shah, C. (2019) ‘Collaborative information behaviour’, Collaborative Information
Behavior, 7(8), pp. 141–158. doi:10.4018/978-1-61520-797-8.ch009.
Walker, S.L. (2017) ‘New Outreach Initiatives at a Community College’, Community
& Junior College Libraries, 23(3–4), pp. 91–98.
doi:10.1080/02763915.2019.1630791.
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