Chapter 10: Maintaining mental wellbeing Flashcards
what is mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing can be defined as “our state of mind, our enjoyment of life, and our ability to cope with the normal stresses of everyday life and develop our own potential” (Grivas, 2023, p. 476).
what are protective factors
Protective factors are “influences that enable an individual to promote and maintain high levels of mental wellbeing” (Edrolo, 2023, p. 404).
what are biological protective factors of mental wellbeing
adequate nutritional intake and hydration
adequate sleep
Adequate nutritional intake and hydration
In terms of having an adequate nutritional intake, this does not necessarily mean calorie counting or eating well-portioned meals.
Instead, it is about eating a good variety of different foods that fulfil one’s nutritional needs.
In terms of being adequately hydrated, this does not necessarily mean drinking eight glasses of water a day.
Instead, it is about being adequately hydrated based on one’s individual needs. (For instance, sometimes more than eight glasses of water may be needed for optimal functioning).
adequate sleep
In terms of adequate sleep, this does not necessarily mean getting about 9 hours of sleep every night in Year 12.
Instead, it is more about getting quality sleep – feeling rested and refreshed.
Research shows the good sleep reduces the likelihood of suffering mental problems and mental disorders.
cognitive behavioral strategies
Cognitive Behavioural Strategies “are techniques drawn from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to identify, assess and correct faulty patterns of thinking and problem behaviours…” (Grivas, 2023, p. 555).
So, we can use these strategies beyond in the context of Specific Phobia.
One cognitive strategy is cognitive restructuring (also known as cognitive reframing) and one behavioural strategy is behaviour activation.
what is cognitive restructuring
Cognitive restructuring “is the process of learning to identify, challenge, and modify or replace negative, irrational thoughts with more reasonable and helpful ways of thinking” (Grivas, 2023, p. 556).
whats behaviour activation
Behaviour activation “involves identifying and scheduling activities that promote enjoyment and reduce stress” (Grivas, 2023, p. 557).
The aim of behaviour activation is to positively reinforce mood-enhancing activities.
what is mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness meditation “is a type of meditation in which a person focuses attention on their breathing, whilst thoughts, feelings, and sensations are experienced freely as they arise” (Grivas, 2022, p. 559).
Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment, paying attention to our internal and external environment in the now.
It is slightly different from meditation as we can engage in mindfulness formally or informally,
and meditation unlike mindfulness tends to be practiced at set times.
what are social protective factors
support from family, friends and community which can be authentic and engaging
what is social support
Social support refers to “the assistance, care or comfort provided by people to each other, typically to help them cope with a stressor or mental health issue” (Grivas, 2023, p. 561).
what is self determination
Self-determination describes “the ability for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to freely decide and govern their own political, social, cultural and economic needs and rights” (p.12)
Self-determination sits at the core of Indigenous Psychology.
And in turn the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
what is cultural continuity
Cultural continuity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples refers to the ability to preserve and carry forward their rich heritage, traditions, practices, knowledge and way of life across generations.
This is central to promoting the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
