It is important to gain some
understanding of the key concepts in modern psychiatry. Firstly,
the model practiced is a holistic one; and multidisciplinary team
work is all-important.
The holistic model approach
A
'bio-psycho-social' model is used in understanding
cases in psychiatry, i.e. biological, psychological and social
factors form part of the formulation triangle when considering a
patient's difficulties and also in considering treatment
strategies. Think of cases you see on the wards or in the
community using the 'bio-psycho-social' triangle
approach, and include these headings in your case formulations.
Click here for a
worked example of a case using a bio-psycho-social
approach.
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Team work
In mental health services
multi-disciplinary team working is key. When
attending a multi-disciplinary meeting, for example, a CMHT meeting
or ward round, arrange a time to talk to other professionals about
their roles, for example occupational therapists and social
workers. Click
here for more information on multidisciplinary teams.
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Fighting stigma
Mental health has a long
history of having been stigmatised. Even within the medical
profession, psychiatry suffers much prejudice. It is important to
be sensitive to the stigma of mental illness
amongst patients and their families. It is part of our job to help
our patients (and the public) to realise an episode of depression
or psychosis is just as valid a reason for poor health as a broken
leg or chronic physical illness. All types of ill health warrant
high quality medical care.
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Dr Meinou Simmons
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Page last updated on 2 February 2009
by E Baker-Glenn