The Biopsychosocial Model Of Mental Health, And The Holistic Treatment Model

Mental illness dates back to 5000 BCE, it was believed back then that mental illness was the result of “supernatural phenomena such as spiritual or demonic possession, sorcery, the evil eye, or an angry deity and were treated with mystical treatments such as exorcisms, prayers, charms, amulet and brutal treatments” (Atkinson, R.L. et al.1996)

Hebrews believed that the illnesses were God’s punishment for committing sins (Atkinson, R.L. et al. 1996). Egyptians were the most advanced and believed the illness was affected with “mental pathology” (Atkinson, R.L. et al. 1996).

The biopsychosocial model used in psychological appraisal and treatment for mental illness views mental illness as a product of combination of factors including

Medical treatment plan can only be effective if a team of experienced, expert and culturally competent and qualified clinicians, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists all work together to create a treatment plan for the patient with the patients input and have alternative treatment in place such as spirituality and yoga, with family and friends involvement to provide love and support for the patient (Chapman, Gratz and Hoffman, 2007).

Biological factor could be the inherited genetics. The mental health could be due to genetics and in order to diagnose or treat the client, his or her family history will have to be taken into consideration. For example in case of Schizophrenia, “if one monozygotic twin develops schizophrenia, there is at least a 60% chance the co-twin will also develop that disorder” (Engle, 1977).

Psychological factor: psychological explanations for the health problem could be the client’s negative thinking. Clients with a genetic vulnerability most likely display negative thinking that can put them at the risk of depression. Psychological factors may accelerate and put the client at risk for other risky behaviours such as abuse alcohol which could lead to a liver damage (Engle,

My personal view on mental illness, is an illness that needs care, compassionate, affection, empathy, sympathy and to acknowledge that mental illness exists. As a Psychologist I will bring to the field a wide range of skills such as being very open-minded, diverse, and culturally competent, accept and respect all religious beliefs, non-bias, non-judgmental and able to speak five different languages. I have chosen Mental Health Psychology because I want to make a positive difference and impact on the lives of the children and youth I work with. I support the biopsychosocial model and holistic approach when treating an individual with mental illness. Individuals should be treated as a ‘whole person and not pieces of the puzzle’ if we want to help them get better or be in control of their lives. The treatment becomes effective when addressing the biological, psychological and sociological aspects of the client are