Mental Health Care – Case Study
Assignment Task
After thoroughly reading the case study, you then need to write mental health assessment notes for this patient including:
1. A discussion of at least one (1) contemporary theory of mental health and mental illness;
2. A consideration of challenges to assessment including crisis, trauma, emergency or distress;
3. A discussion of any factors that impact on the mental health of the patient with relation to individualising nursing care. Your answer should be structured as follows:
a. An introduction to a contemporary theory of mental health and mental illness (500 words);
b. An assessment of the patient including age, gender, social and cultural factors, life history, and current circumstances. This section should be linked to the theory in your introduction. (500 words);
c. A discussion of any challenges to assessing the patient described, and any further information about the patient you would need to conduct a thorough assessment (300 words).
d. A concluding section that discusses the next steps you would take from a nursing perspective
Introduction to a Contemporary Theory of Mental Health and Mental Illness
The case study presents a patient, John, who is struggling with mental health issues. One contemporary theory of mental health and mental illness that can be applied to John’s case is the biopsychosocial model. This model views mental health and mental illness as a complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors. According to this theory, mental illnesses can result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Therefore, treatment of mental illness should consider all these factors, including the biological, psychological, and social determinants of the patient’s condition.
Assessment of the Patient
John is a 45-year-old male who has a history of depression and anxiety. He presents with symptoms of low mood, loss of interest in activities he previously enjoyed, and insomnia. He reports feeling “hopeless” and “unable to cope” with his life. John is currently unemployed and separated from his wife. He lives alone and has no close family nearby. John’s social and cultural background is Western and English speaking. John’s current circumstances suggest that he is experiencing significant stressors, including unemployment, separation from his spouse, and lack of social support.
The biopsychosocial model can help to explain John’s symptoms. The biological factors that may contribute to his mental illness include his family history of depression and anxiety. The psychological factors include his low mood and sense of hopelessness, which may be related to his negative thought patterns and feelings of worthlessness. The social factors include his lack of social support, unemployment, and marital separation, which may contribute to feelings of isolation and stress.
Challenges to Assessment
Assessing John’s mental health can be challenging due to his current state of distress. He presents with symptoms of depression, which can make it difficult for him to provide a comprehensive account of his life history and current circumstances. Moreover, John may be experiencing a crisis due to his recent separation and unemployment, which may require urgent intervention.
Further information that would be helpful in conducting a thorough assessment of John includes his medical history, current medication use, and any recent life changes. It would also be helpful to know more about his social support network and any coping strategies he has used in the past.
Next Steps from a Nursing Perspective
As a nurse, my next steps would be to provide John with immediate emotional support and crisis intervention. I would assess his risk for self-harm or suicide and ensure that he has access to appropriate mental health resources. I would also collaborate with John to develop a care plan that addresses his biological, psychological, and social needs. This may include referrals to mental health professionals, Helpance with finding employment, and support in rebuilding his social network. I would monitor his progress over time and make adjustments to his care plan as needed.
