Mental Health Cultural Considerations

Therapy & Medical Considerations

• Many physical conditions can present with psychiatric symptoms, such as anxiety or cognitive changes
• It is essential to understand a client’s substance use and medication history, as certain substances or medications can cause anxiety.
• It is vital to consider the client’s overall well-being and collaborate with other healthcare providers as necessary
• Knowing a client's medical history helps identify potential risks and ensure client safety

Cultural Considerations in Diagnosis & Treatment

• Cultural background influences how individuals express symptoms, including emotions, potentially affecting diagnosis
• Understanding cultural beliefs about mental health is crucial for promoting sensitivity and engagement
• Cultural identity affects a client's willingness to engage in therapy, and recognizing these norms can foster trust
• Incorporating cultural concepts allows for personalized treatment that aligns with a client’s values

Assessment of Engagement

• Understanding a client's readiness to change helps gauge their engagement in the therapy process
• Therapists can adapt their approach to better support the client’s needs based on motivation level
• Effective interventions are more likely when they align with the client’s readiness for change

Adjustment Disorder

• The primary focus is to help individuals develop effective coping strategies and support systems to manage emotional responses to stressors
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and supportive therapy are promising approaches to treating Adjustment Disorder
• Prognosis is generally favorable, with symptoms often resolving within six months after the stressor is removed

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

• Outbursts can be verbal or physical.
• Outbursts must occur on average three or more times per week
• Between outbursts, the individual's mood is typically irritable or angry

Major Depressive Episode

• Common symptoms include depressed mood, loss of interest, appetite changes, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and impaired concentration
• Requires a minimum of five symptoms that persist for at least two weeks.

Distinguishing Grief From Major Depressive Disorder

• Typical grief includes intermittent feelings of sadness and loss but generally allows for moments of happiness
• Major depressive disorder involves persistent, pervasive symptoms that significantly impair functioning, lack of interest, and may include intense feelings of worthlessness or suicidal thoughts

Persistent Depressive Disorder

• Requires depressed mood and at least two additional symptoms for at least two years.

Panic Disorder

• Panic attacks are typically unexpected.
• Requires one month or more of persistent worry about having additional attacks or significant behavioral changes related to the attacks

Typical Panic Attack Symptoms

• Symptoms include rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, trembling, feelings of choking, and fears of losing control or dying
• At least four symptoms from the DSM-5 criteria must be present.

Agoraphobia

• The perceived threat is situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable in the event of a panic attack
• Individuals are concerned that developing panic-like symptoms could lead to embarrassment or incapacitation
• Symptoms and fears must occur in two or more settings (e.g., public transportation, crowded places, or being outside alone)

Anxiety Symptoms & Substance/Medical Considerations

• Substances (like alcohol or drugs), medications, and medical conditions can contribute to or exacerbate anxiety symptoms.

Treating Children with Separation Anxiety Disorder

• Involving parents is crucial for effective treatment

External Exposure

• Gradual exposure to feared situations until anxiety peaks and then declines
• Repeated exposure until anxiety extinguishes (habituation)
• Expectancy violation occurs when individuals confront their fears

Medications & Interoceptive Exposure

• Medications may dampen physiological responses to anxiety, hindering the exposure process
• Prognosis for treating specific phobias is generally favorable, especially with exposure therapy