Social work Flashcards
Study (19 cards)
Define: Mental health
‘How we think, feel and act as we cope with life’
What is good mental health?
A state of mental wellbeing that allows someone to be productive, have fulfilling relationships, cope with difficult circumstances and adapt to change.
According to WHO, what does good mental health enable people to do?
Cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.
How are mental health and physical health connected?
Mental health affects physical health and physical health affects mental health.
True or False: Mental illness means that a person is crazy.
False
What does mental illness collectively refer to?
Health conditions characterised by alterations in emotions, thinking or behaviour.
What percentage of the population in Namibia is estimated to suffer from mental illnesses?
Approximately 25.6%
How many patients were seen by mental health professionals in Namibia between 2019 to 2021?
256,486 patients
What was the suicide rate recorded in Namibia between April 2020 and March 2021?
1542
List some causes of mental illness.
- Biological factors
- Psychological factors
- Genetic predisposition
- Brain chemistry
- Social factors
- Substance abuse
- Gender-based violence
- Life experiences
- Environmental factors
- Sociopolitical factors
- Economic inequality
What are some signs of mental illness?
- Continuous sadness and hopelessness
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Excessive fear or worry
- Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability or anger
- Substance abuse
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Extreme mood swings
What are some risk factors for mental health problems?
- Limited access to mental health services
- High levels of poverty
- Unemployment
- Bereavement
- Social isolation
- Natural disasters
- Limited education on mental health
- Violence and discrimination
- Long-term physical health conditions
- Migration and displacement
- Severe long-term stress
What is a major barrier to mental health in Namibia?
Stigma
What role do social workers play in mental health care?
- Work with a multidisciplinary team
- Case manager
- Advocate
- Administrator
- Therapist
- Family therapy
- Therapeutic groups
What services does Lifeline/Childline Namibia provide?
24/7 free & confidential support, including suicide prevention and mental health counselling.
What does the Mental Health Centre at Windhoek Central Hospital offer?
Psychological support & crisis intervention for individuals with severe mental health issues.
What is unique about the Okonguarri Psychotherapeutic Centre?
It offers holistic treatment set in a 5,000-hectare wilderness area, integrating nature into its therapeutic approach.
What is the developmental approach to mental health care focused on?
- Promote mental well-being for all
- Prevent mental health problems through early intervention
- Empower individuals and communities
- Advocate for inclusive policies and reduce stigma
