PSY 215 Project One Template

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Southern New Hampshire University *

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215

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Psychology

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Oct 30, 2023

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PSY 215 Project One Template Use the following article to support you in writing your blog post: Tips for Writing Popular Blog Posts . Complete this template by replacing the bracketed text with the relevant information. Part One Use this Project One Template to complete your blog post. You will first review the various psychological disorders that you’ve learned about in the course and select 3 disorders to focus on for this assignment. Using a minimum of 3 to 5 sentences per bullet for each psychological disorder, respond to each of the rubric criteria below to structure your blog post. Support your answers with credible sources when appropriate. Blog post headline: “Unmasking the Shadows: Exploring Anxiety, Depression, and Bipolar Challenges” Three selected disorders: Anxiety Disorders Major Depressive Disorder Bipolar Disorder  In your own words, identify and describe the main diagnostic features of each of the disorders selected. The diagnostic features of anxiety disorders include excessive worry, irrational fears, negative thought patterns, and rapid heartbeat. These symptoms often persist for at least six months leading to psychological distress. According to the DSM-5there are several different anxiety disorders. There are specific phobias, social anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and generalized anxiety disorders. The latter being the most common. Individuals who are afraid of heights may avoid bridges or going in tall buildings. Some individuals have panic attacks from high anxiety. According to the DSM the main diagnostic features of Major Depressive Disorder are persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in things that used to be enjoyed. Some other features of MDD are a noticeable amount of weight loss or gain insomnia or hypersomnia, restlessness, fatigue and feelings of worthlessness or guilt, trouble concentrating and thoughts of suicide. To be diagnosed with MDD an individual must experience at least five of those symptoms during the same two-week period and at least one of the symptoms be either a depressed mood or lost of interest and pleasure (Hooley et al.,2019 page 212) Bipolar disorder is a cycle between moods of manic/hypomanic and depressive episodes. To meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder, these depressive episodes must present for at least one week for manic episode, and cause significant impairment in social occupational or other important areas of functioning.  Consider biomedical factors: Describe what it means to characterize the disorders as “diseases of the nervous system and the body.” 1

Anxiety directly affects the central nervous system, which includes the sympathetic nervous system responsible for the “fight or flight” response, leading to increased heart rate, rapid- breathing, and panic attacks. Anxiety disorders are associated with imbalance of neurotransmitters. Anxiety can lead to the release of cortisol, a stress hormone. Being exposed to high levels of these hormones can lead to potential health risks, such as in the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal issues, and chronic pain. Characterizing MDD as a disease of the nervous system and body emphasizes that depression is not merely a mental health issue but has profound physiological and neurological underpinning. Understanding these biological aspects is crucial for developing effective treatments and inter… that address both the mental and physical dimensions of this condition. There are several biological factors that can contribute to developing bipolar. “These factors include genetic, neurochemical, hormonal, neurophysiological, neuroanatomical, and biological, rhythm influences. (Hooley et al., 2019) (p236)  Consider clinical factors: Describe the similarities between the disorders selected. In what ways might these similarities impact diagnosis and treatment? Anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorders are distinct mental disorders, but they share certain similarities in their symptoms and may have some overlapping features. The overlap in symptoms such as changes in mood and emotional distress can make it challenging to distinguish between these conditions especially when individuals experience mixed features or rapid cycling in bipolar disorders. Bipolar disorder should never be diagnosed in the depressive state. Anxiety and depression often occur in individuals with bipolar disorder. Due to symptom overlap individuals may be misdiagnosed initially misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment.  Consider historical factors: Describe the ways deinstitutionalization has impacted patient rights, levels of care, and access to treatment of the disorders over time. Deinstitutionalization was driven in part by efforts to protect the rights of individuals with mental health disorders. It was aimed to remove the isolation and loss of personal freedoms associated with long-term institutionalization. Deinstitutionalization promoted the development of community mental health services. The transition to community-based care posed challenges in terms of insufficient resources, funding, and a shortage of mental health professionals. It also unintentionally contributed to an increase in homelessness among some discharged patients. 2

 Consider sociocultural factors: Describe the social and cultural changes that have caused shifts in the public’s perception of the disorders over time. Efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health have played a role in these shifts. Advocacy groups, mental health organizations, and public figures have worked to raise awareness and educate the public about these disorders. As a result, there’s been a gradual shift from viewing mental health conditions as personal weakness or moral failing. Scientific research over the years has provided a better understanding than what was once believed to be the causes of these disorders. Changes in cultural attitudes and values have influenced how society views mental health. Events like covid-19 pandemic have highlighted the importance of mental health on a global scale. Part Two For Part Two, choose 1 disorder from the 3 you discussed in Part One. Respond to each of the three questions in a minimum of 3 to 5 sentences. Support your answers with credible sources when appropriate and address the rubric criteria. One selected disorder: Major Depressive Disorder Consider the mind-body connection: Describe whether a discernible bidirectional relationship exists between the disorder and physical illness. If so, explain. Chronic stress and depression can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illness. Depression is associated with chronic inflammatory disease which has been linked to various physical health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Also, the diagnosis of a serious illness or the experience of chronic pain can lead to depression. Consider the impact of language and messaging: Describe how the words we use (e.g., in casual conversation, in media communications) when discussing a disorder influence our willingness or ability to manage the disorder. The use of stigmatizing or derogatory language can reinforce stereotypes and misconceptions about individuals with disorders. This can lead to feelings of shame and guilt, which may deter individuals from seeking help or managing their condition openly. Negative or overly used clinical terms can cause an individual to feel hopelessness, potentially hindering their motivation to manage their depression. If media and society provide clear, accurate, nonjudgmental information about depression, it can empower individuals to seek help and treatment. Promoting positive, informative language can help reduce stigma and foster empathy and contribute to a more inclusive a supportive environment for those who suffer not only from depression but other mental heath disorders. 3

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Consider the effect of lifestyle choices: Describe the small, but significant, changes in attitude/behavior we can make that could help us to manage the symptoms of the disorder. Creating a daily routine can provide structure and stability making it easier to manage depression. Ensuring a balanced diet and proper sleep habits can be beneficial to mental health. Engaging in exercise can boost mood and energy. Mindfulness and meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and focus on the present moment. Treat yourself with kindness and self-compassion. Managing depression may be a process so having patience and self-love is essential. Most importantly regular communication with mental health professionals is key to providing an accurate treatment plan to manage and live with depression. Hooley, J. M., Nock, M. K., & Butcher, J. N. (2019). Abnormal Psychology (18th ed.). Pearson Education (US). https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9780135191033 4