Reflection/ Discussion Board
Psychological and Spiritual Well-Being
CHAPTER 2
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Chapter 2
Psychological and Spiritual Health
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify the characteristics of emotionally healthy persons
- List and give examples of the three major areas of positive psychology
- Discuss the health benefits of spirituality
- Identify ways to enrich one’s spiritual life
- Describe four ways that sleep affects daytime well-being
Chapter 2
Psychological and Spiritual Health
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify risk factors in college students for mental health problems
- List the symptoms of major depression and discuss the pros and cons of using antidepressants
- Discuss some of the factors that may lead to suicide as well as strategies for prevention
- List the criteria for considering therapy for a mental health problem
Emotional Health
Characteristics of Emotionally Health People
Determination and effort to be healthy
Flexible and adaptable
Sense of meaning and affirmation of life
Understanding of that oneself is not the center of the universe
Compassion for others
Ability to be unselfish
Increased depth and satisfaction in intimate relationships
Sense of control over mind and body
Mental Health
The ability to perceive reality as it is, to respond to its challenges, and develop rational strategies for living
Characteristics include:
Ability to function and carry out responsibilities
Ability to form relationships
Realistic perceptions of the motivations of others
Rational, logical thought processes
Ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity
“…the scientific study of ordinary human strengths and virtues”
Practice Positive Psychology
Pursue Happiness
Make Yourself Happier
Become Optimistic
Manage your Moods
Look on the Lighter Side
Develop Autonomy
Develop Self-Compassion
Boost Emotional Intelligence
Know Yourself
Meet Your Needs
Boost Self-Esteem
Spiritual Health
the ability to identify one’s basic purpose in life and achieve one’s full potential.
Spirituality: a belief in someone or something that transcends the boundaries of self
Scientific evidence
indicates it can enhance health and extend life
Greater psychological and overall well-being
Prayer and other religious experiences alter parts of the brain associated with stress and anxiety for the better
Spiritual Health
Spiritual Intelligence: the capacity to sense, understand, and tap into ourselves, others, and the world around us
Enhance your spiritual health by:
Deepening your spiritual intelligence
Clarifying your values
Enriching your spiritual life
Considering the power of prayer
Cultivating Gratitude
Forgiving
Needed: A Good Night’s Sleep
- Only 1/3 of Americans report getting enough sleep
- Female students generally have poorer sleep patterns and suffer more consequences
Inadequate Sleep Impacts Your Health
↓ learning and memory
↑ weight gain, metabolism changes
↑ Safety risks: falls, road accidents, errors
↓ Mood/quality of life and life satisfaction
↑ Hypertension, irregular heartbeat, stress hormones
↓ Immune system
How to Sleep Better
Keep regular Hours
Develop a sleep ritual
Don’t drink caffeine late in day, don’t smoke
Don’t use alcohol as a sleep aid
Keep “power naps” to 30 mins or less
Mental Health
College students at higher risk
- Age – in 3/4 of cases have first episodes of mental and substance use disorders before age 24
- History of psychological problems
- Romantic Break-ups
- Life changes
Depressive Disorders
Depression is the most common mental ailment.
Estimates 15-40% of college-age may develop depression
Key contributors: stress, substance abuse, sleep loss
Depression is 2x more common in women; however, depression in males considered an “under” disease; it also manifests differently in males and females
Treatment with antidepressants brings its own risks – make an informed decision
Types of Depressive Disorders
- Dysthymic Disorder – chronic depressed mood
- Minor Depression – similar symptoms as Major depression, just not has severe or numerous
- Major Depression – characteristics include
Feeling Depressed Lack of Energy
Loss of Interest Feeling Helpless
Eating more or less Difficulty concentrating
Having trouble sleeping Difficulty thinking clearly
Feeling slowed down Persistent thoughts of death
Withdrawal from others Physical Symptoms
Other Mental Disorders
Bipolar Disorder – severe depression alternating with manic activity and elation
Anxiety Disorders
involves episodes of apprehension, tension, or
uneasiness
- Phobias
- Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Other Mental Disorders
Attention Disorders
ADHD
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Asperger Syndrome
Schizophrenia
Symptoms include: hallucinations, delusions, inability to think, talking, making odd or purposeless movements, repeating others’ words….
Suicide – Take it Seriously
Steps to Prevent Suicide
- Ask concerned questions
- Don’t offer trite reassurances
- Suggest solutions or alternative to problems
- Don’t be afraid to ask if they are considering suicide
- Don’t think that if people talk about suicide they won’t carry out the threat
- Watch for behavioral clues
- If suicide thoughts are posted on Facebook, report the post to “Report Suicidal Content” link
If you are struggling or someone you know
is struggling seek help
Campus and Community Services
Options:
Therapy:
Psychodynamic
Cognitive-Behavioral
Behavioral
Interpersonal
Psychiatric Drugs
Alternative Mind-Mood Products