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Job Description as A Future International Rehabilitation Psychologist.
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Institutional Affiliation
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Professor
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Abstract
The requirements of people with mental health disabilities (MHD) and the role of a future
international rehabilitation psychologist are vital. The conceptual model of mental health
disabilities is presented in this essay, highlighting the significance of a comprehensive and
person-centered approach. Evaluation, intervention, advocacy, research, and education are the
five main duties of an international rehabilitation psychologist that are discussed. Examining the
frequency and particular difficulties these demographic faces, researchers looked at the
population in India with mental health disabilities. The requirements and dangers for the MHD
community include comorbid conditions, resource access issues, and social stigma. Exploring
mediating elements and ethical issues surrounding mental health disability, we stress the
significance of cultural competency, confidentiality, and informed permission. A thorough self-
management and treatment plan for individuals with mental health conditions is also provided; it
includes evidence-based therapies, psychoeducation, and support services. By offering a
framework for addressing the many and complicated needs of people with mental health
disabilities, this article seeks to contribute to international rehabilitation psychology.
3
The conceptual model of Mental Health Disabilities
The conceptual model of mental health impairments provides a basis for comprehending
and managing the complexity of mental health difficulties. It offers a framework for analyzing
the variables that influence the onset and experience of mental health problems and the therapies
and supports required by those afflicted. At its foundation, the conceptual model acknowledges
the complexity of mental health disorders and the wide range of biological, psychological, and
social elements that affect them. It recognizes that various factors, such as traumatic events,
neurochemical imbalances, genetic predispositions, and external pressures, can influence how
these diseases emerge.
According to Kennedy (2012), the paradigm's biological component highlights the
importance of understanding the physiological mechanisms behind mental health issues. This
includes examining genetic variables that may make people more susceptible to specific diseases
and the effects of neurotransmitters and brain architecture on mental health. Researchers and
clinicians can create focused therapies, such as medication or neurostimulation approaches, by
understanding the biological foundation of mental health disorders (Kennedy, 2012). The
psychological element emphasizes how cognition, emotion, and behavior are related to mental
health issues. Johnstone et al. (2008) argue that this entails analyzing ideas and thoughts' role in
the emergence and maintenance of certain situations and the impact of coping mechanisms and
emotional regulation. Cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based techniques are only two
examples of psychosocial therapies addressing these psychological illnesses.
The paradigm's social component highlights how important social and environmental
elements affect mental health. It emphasizes the significance of social support networks,
financial position, cultural influences, and resource accessibility in determining a person's
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trajectory toward mental health. Informing policies and interventions to decrease health
inequalities and advance social justice requires understanding the socioeconomic determinants of
mental health disorders. The dynamic character of these diseases is also recognized in the mental
health impairments conceptual model. Mental health-related disabilities can vary in severity,
evolve through time, and be influenced by various interconnected events (Kendall & Marshall,
2004). This paradigm stresses a holistic approach that considers the person's circumstances and
experiences rather than recommending a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy and support.
Job description as a future International Rehabilitation Psychologist consisting of a
minimum of five responsibilities
I have a variety of duties as an international rehabilitation psychologist, all of which are geared
toward assisting people with impairments and advancing their general well-being and functional
independence. I would participate in various evaluation, advocacy, intervention, research, and
educational activities in this position. Here are the five main duties listed in my job description.
Assessment and Evaluation
One of my main duties would be to conduct thorough evaluations of people with disabilities,
assessing their cognitive, social, emotional, and functional capacities. Stout et al. add that this
includes giving customers and their families interviews, giving out standardized exams, and
looking through their medical and academic records (
Stout et al., 2021). I may create specialized
treatment plans and interventions to facilitate their recovery and enhance their quality of life by
fully understanding their strengths, limits, and special requirements.
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Intervention and Treatment
Designing and executing evidence-based therapies to address the psychological, emotional, and
behavioral issues experienced by people with disabilities would be another key task. This might
involve counseling or treatment for people and their families to strengthen coping mechanisms,
foster resilience, and increase mental health. To provide comprehensive treatment and promote
functional independence, I would work with a multidisciplinary team of experts, including
occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, and rehabilitation counselors.
Advocacy and Policy Development
I would actively participate in advocacy activities to advance the rights and inclusion of people
with disabilities as an international rehabilitation psychologist. As suggested by Levine &
Breshears (2019), this duty includes educating the public on disabilities, dispelling myths and
prejudices, and promoting legislative reforms to improve accessibility, equal opportunity, and
non-discrimination. I would work to provide a more welcoming and accommodating
environment for people with disabilities worldwide by cooperating with organizations,
governmental bodies, and communities.
Research and Evidence-based Practice
Contributing to rehabilitative psychology through research and knowledge dissemination would
be a major duty in my position. Further understanding successful treatments and best practices
requires conducting empirical investigations, publishing research findings, and giving conference
presentations. The most recent research supports my treatments, keeps developing my
professional abilities, and helps the field progress by remaining up to speed with new findings.
6
Education and Training
Finally, I would be in charge of instructing and teaching upcoming experts in the area as an international rehabilitation psychologist. To spread information and develop the potential of others, this comprises instructing classes, managing students, and leading workshops or seminars. I can help create a professional and caring workforce prepared to serve people with disabilities effectively by supporting the future generation of rehabilitation psychologists.
Describe the population with Mental Health Disabilities in India.
In India, a sizeable percentage of people experience mental illness. India, a nation with a
population of more than 1.3 billion, has many people with mental health problems. Mental health
issues include schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and
bipolar disorder. India's population with mental health problems experiences several difficulties
due to many circumstances (
Murray et al., 2020). First, there is still a lack of knowledge,
comprehension, and acceptance of mental health issues in Indian culture due to stigma and
prejudice. This stigma makes People frequently discouraged from getting timely and effective
treatment. The lack of mental health care services worsens the community's difficulties. The
infrastructure for mental healthcare in India is frequently neglected, particularly in rural areas.
Since there are not enough mental health professionals like clinical psychologists, mental health
professionals, and mental health nurses, it might be difficult to get high-quality care. The
COVID-19 epidemic has also significantly affected India's population's mental health. Due to
increasing stress, loneliness, job loss, and disruptions in routine mental health treatments, the
nation saw a rise in mental health disorders (
Lund et al., 2020). The outbreak revealed the
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present gaps in mental health treatment and highlighted the urgent need for extensive support
networks. To safeguard the rights of people who experience mental health problems and to
enhance community-based treatment, the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017 was approved.
Telepsychiatry services and other programs, including the National Mental Health Program, are
being developed to improve mental health care access and financial viability, particularly in rural
regions.
Needs and risks for the Mental Health Disabilities population
India's population with mental health problems has special demands and hazards because
of several variables, including social, cultural, and economic circumstances. Access to mental
health treatments is one of this population's top priorities. Tucker & Reed (2008) note that
despite rising mental health awareness, there remains a severe lack of mental health experts,
especially in rural regions. Due to this shortage, individuals with mental health problems find it
challenging to obtain timely care. Integration of mental health treatments into primary healthcare
systems is another urgent necessity. Physical and mental health disorders are frequently
addressed independently, which results in fragmented treatment. Moreno et al. (2020) posit that
providing early identification, intervention, and more thorough, all-encompassing care for people
with mental health problems would be possible by integrating mental health services with
primary healthcare (
Moreno et al., 2020).
The population with mental health problems also experiences economic difficulties. Due
to prejudice and ignorance of their skills, many people with mental health issues find it difficult
to find a job. This economic fragility negatively impacts their financial security, which limits
their access to vital resources and support networks. To solve this issue, adequate vocational
8
training programs and job possibilities suited to their requirements are required. People with
mental health issues in India receive comprehensive care, which includes medication treatments,
psychotherapy, and self-empowerment methods in their self-care routines.
Mediating Factors and ethical concerns for the Mental Health Disabilities Population
Due to several mediating circumstances and ethical considerations, India's population
with mental health problems faces various difficulties. These elements and worries affect the
availability and standard of mental healthcare, aggravating this vulnerable population's problems.
The lack of knowledge and understanding of mental health problems in Indian culture is a crucial
mediating factor. For those with mental health issues, stigma, and prejudice are pervasive,
resulting in social isolation and restricted prospects. The lack of acceptance and support from
families, communities, and even healthcare professionals results from unfavorable views
regarding mental health. As a result, people can hesitate to seek assistance or encounter obstacles
while trying to acquire the right mental healthcare treatments.
Another mediating issue is India's lack of facilities and funding for mental healthcare.
Varma et al. (2021) argue that the country lacks sufficient mental health specialists, particularly
in the rural areas where most people reside. Due to this scarcity, there are long wait times for
diagnosis and treatment, a shortage of specialized services, and a heavy burden for existing hired
mental health professionals. The government's focus on mental health and limited funding
worsen these issues.
When tackling mental health problems in India, ethical issues also come up. Informed
consent and autonomy are significant ethical challenges, yet persons with mental health
difficulties may struggle to communicate their preferences and make decisions due to their
9
condition. The involvement of support networks like family or caregivers is necessary to protect
an individual's freedom while carefully balancing their rights and those of others who struggle
with mental illness. India has socioeconomic divides, and more disadvantaged people face more
barriers to seeking mental health treatment. Everyone should have access to high-quality medical
treatment, including counseling, medication, and rehabilitation programs, regardless of their
financial situation.
The use of psychiatric medications also raises moral concerns regarding appropriate
prescription and oversight. Regular evaluations, customized treatment regimens, and adequate
documentation are required to avoid pharmaceutical abuse or overuse. Varma et al. (2021) assert
that to safeguard patients' health; it is essential to consider any potential adverse effects and long-
term consequences of these medicines. A thorough strategy is required to meet the demands of
India's people with mental health difficulties. This entails building up the sector's infrastructure
and staff, integrating it into primary healthcare, raising public awareness and battling stigma, and
enhancing community-based support networks. A treatment and a self-management plan for patients with Mental Health Disabilities
Mental health issues, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and
depression, affect many individuals in India. Effective treatment and self-management programs
are important for these shortcomings to be addressed and for people's well-being to be improved.
It is important to remember that each patient will require a distinct approach to therapy because
the severity and outward manifestations of mental health disorders may differ. Mental health
conditions are treated with psychotherapy, medication, and social support. To address symptoms
and preserve people's mental health, common drugs include antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and
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antidepressants. To get the greatest benefits, the prescribing doctor must regularly monitor these
medications' doses and adverse effects.
Another crucial care element is psychotherapy, which includes cognitive-behavioral
therapy (CBT). CBT encourages healthy coping strategies and emotional well-being by assisting
people in recognizing and changing destructive attitudes and behaviors. Other therapeutic
approaches, such as interpersonal and psychodynamic therapy, might also be used, depending on
the patient's needs (Lorenzo-Luaces et al., 2021). Self-management skills are essential for the
long-term well-being of persons with mental health issues. These programs are designed to
provide participants with the information and resources they need to actively improve their
quality of life and gain control over their diseases. Self-management strategies frequently utilize
psychoeducation, which informs individuals about their condition, its symptoms, and the
available resources. Self-management plans strongly emphasize developing coping mechanisms and stress
reduction strategies in addition to psychoeducation. These can include mindfulness practices,
meditation techniques, physical activity, living a healthy lifestyle, and creating a supportive
social network. Peer support groups and local organizations are other beneficial places where
people may share their experiences and obtain assistance from others going through similar
challenges. By combining these techniques, Individuals can control their conditions and lead
fulfilling lives. Increasing public knowledge of these issues and access to mental health therapies
are still crucial to address the worries faced by people in India who suffer from mental health
impairments.
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References
Johnstone, B., Walsh, J., Carter, S. & Fisk, R. (2008). Rehabilitation psychology: Meeting the needs of individuals with acquired disabilities in Ireland. Disability and Rehabilitation, 30(9), 709–715. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09638280701395708
.
Kendall, E. & Marshall, C.A. (2004). Factors that prevent equitable access to rehabilitation for Aboriginal Australians with disabilities: The need for culturally safe rehabilitation. Rehabilitation Psychology, 49(1), 5–13. https://www.proquest.com/docview/614386779?
accountid=34120&pq-origsite=primo
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Kennedy, P. (2012). The Oxford Handbook of Rehabilitation Psychology. Levine, A., & Breshears, B. (2019). Discrimination at every turn: An intersectional ecological lens for rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation Psychology
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(2), 146.
Lorenzo-Luaces, L., Peipert, A., De Jesus Romero, R., Rutter, L. A., & Rodriguez-Quintana, N. (2021). Personalized medicine and cognitive behavioral therapies for depression: Small effects, big problems, and bigger data.
International Journal of Cognitive Therapy
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14
, 59-85.
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Lund, E. M., Forber-Pratt, A. J., Wilson, C., & Mona, L. R. (2020). The COVID-19 pandemic, stress, and trauma in the disability community: A call to action.
Rehabilitation Psychology
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(4), 313.
Moreno, C., Wykes, T., Galderisi, S., Nordentoft, M., Crossley, N., Jones, N., ... & Arango, C. (2020). How mental health care should change as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The lancet psychiatry
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(9), 813–824.
Murray, H., Grey, N., Wild, J., Warnock-Parkes, E., Kerr, A., Clark, D. M., & Ehlers, A. (2020). Cognitive therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder following critical illness and intensive care unit admission.
The Cognitive Behaviour Therapist
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Stout, N. L., Santa Mina, D., Lyons, K. D., Robb, K., & Silver, J. K. (2021). A systematic review of rehabilitation and exercise recommendations in oncology guidelines.
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Tucker, J.A. & Reed, G.M. (2008). Evidentiary pluralism as a strategy for research and evidence-
based practices in rehabilitation psychology. Rehabilitation Psychology, 53(3), 279–293. https://www.proquest.com/docview/614492717?pq-origsite=primo&accountid=34120
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Varma, P., Junge, M., Meaklim, H., & Jackson, M. L. (2021). Younger people are more vulnerable to stress, anxiety, and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic: A global cross-sectional survey
—progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry
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