W1 Perspectives and legislation that guides practice

Question 1

What is the definition of distress?

Answer 1

A common, temporary experience of unpleasant or unhelpful thoughts and emotional discomfort triggered by specific events

Example: Worrying before an exam

Question 2

What is mental illness also referred to as?

Answer 2

• Mental health condition
• Mental distress
• Mental disorder
• Mental ill-health
• Mental health concerns

Question 3

What is the WHO definition of mental health?

Answer 3

A state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.

(WHO, 2022a)

Question 4

What is the DSM V definition of a mental disorder?

Answer 4

A syndrome characterized by clinically significant disturbance in an individual’s cognition, emotion regulation, or behavior that reflects a dysfunction in psychological, biological, or developmental processes

Not a normal or culturally approved response to common stressors or losses (American Psychiatric Association, 2013)

Question 5

What does the continuum concept imply about mental illness and distress?

Answer 5

Mental illness and distress can be seen on a continuum.

Question 6

What is person-first language?

Answer 6

Use respectful terms such as ‘mental health consumer,’ ‘mental health service user,’ or ‘person with lived experience.’

Question 7

What is the biomedical perspective on mental health?

Answer 7

Uses a medical framework focusing on biological causes through medications and treatments like ECT.

Question 8

What are some criticisms of the biomedical perspective?

Answer 8

• Oversimplifies complex human experiences
• Ignores broader social or life event factors
• Can pathologize normal emotional responses
• Fosters dependence and stigma

Question 9

What does the psychological perspective focus on?

Answer 9

Cognitive, emotional, motivational, attitudinal, and behavioral processes.

Question 10

What are some criticisms of the psychological perspective?

Answer 10

• May overlook external factors like social and economic circumstances.

Question 11

What does the socioecological perspective recognize?

Answer 11

Mental health is influenced by the interaction between individuals and their environment.

Question 12

What is the recovery perspective on mental health?

Answer 12

Focuses on overall wellbeing and quality of life rather than just symptom reduction.

Question 13

What is the biopsychosocial model?

Answer 13

Proposes that mental illness and distress result from the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Question 14

What emphasizes a holistic view of wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples?

Answer 14

Connection to physical, mental, emotional, cultural, and spiritual health.

Question 15

What is one key aspect of person-centred care?

Answer 15

A collaborative partnership where the person receiving care directs decisions about their treatment.

Question 16

What does recovery in mental health focus on?

Answer 16

Supporting people to live meaningful, contributing lives, whether or not their mental health issues have resolved.

Question 17

Fill in the blank: Recovery is a deeply personal, unique process of changing one’s ______.

Answer 17

attitudes, values, feelings, goals, skills, and/or roles.

Question 18

What are the five core recovery processes in the CHIME framework?

Answer 18

• Connectedness
• Hope and optimism
• Identity
• Meaning
• Empowerment

Question 19

What does trauma-informed care aim to prevent?

Answer 19

Further harm by treating everyone as if they might have experienced trauma.

Question 20

What is public stigma?

Answer 20

Negative attitudes and behaviors from society toward those with mental illness.

Question 21

What can stigma lead to in individuals?

Answer 21

Prejudice, discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion.

Question 22

What is self-stigma?

Answer 22

Internalization of negative attitudes by the individual.

Question 23

What can stigma lead to in society?

Answer 23

Prejudice, discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion affecting life opportunities such as employment, education, and community participation.

Stigma adversely impacts social integration and access to resources.

Question 24

What are the consequences of stigma in healthcare?

Answer 24

Delays or prevents help-seeking, resulting in poorer health outcomes.

Stigmatization can deter individuals from receiving necessary medical care.

Question 25

What is public stigma?

Answer 25

Negative attitudes and behaviours from society toward those with mental illness. ## Footnote Public stigma affects how individuals with mental health issues are perceived and treated.

Question 26

What is self-stigma?

Answer 26

Internalization of negative attitudes by the individual. ## Footnote Self-stigma can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and self-worth.

Question 27

What are the components of stigma?

Answer 27

Stereotype, prejudice, and discrimination. ## Footnote These components work together to perpetuate negative perceptions of individuals with mental illness.

Question 28

What is a stereotype in the context of stigma?

Answer 28

A negative belief about a group (e.g. 'people with schizophrenia are dangerous'). ## Footnote Stereotypes contribute to the misinformation surrounding mental health.

Question 29

What is prejudice in the context of stigma?

Answer 29

Emotional and cognitive responses that may lead to discriminatory behaviour. ## Footnote Prejudice often results in biased treatment of individuals with mental health issues.

Question 30

What is discrimination in the context of stigma?

Answer 30

Actions taken based on prejudices (e.g. avoidance, undertreatment). ## Footnote Discrimination can manifest in various forms, including social exclusion.

Question 31

What should be avoided in language regarding mental health?

Answer 31

Stigmatising phrases (e.g. 'the alcoholic in bed 12' or 'Shirley is a schizophrenic'). ## Footnote Respectful language promotes dignity and reduces stigma.

Question 32

What is the purpose of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act (2022)?

Answer 32

Provides a legal framework for the care and treatment of individuals experiencing mental health disorders. ## Footnote This Act aims to improve mental health services and protect patient rights.

Question 33

What did the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act (2022) replace?

Answer 33

The Mental Health Act (2014). ## Footnote The new Act aims to update and improve upon previous legislation.

Question 34

What does the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) state in Article 1?

Answer 34

All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. ## Footnote This foundational document establishes the basis for human rights globally.

Question 35

What are the General Principles of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)?

Answer 35

* Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy, independence, and freedom of choice * Non-discrimination and equality * Full participation and inclusion in society * Respect for differences, equality of opportunity, and accessibility ## Footnote These principles aim to ensure people with disabilities enjoy their rights fully.

Question 36

What does the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (VIC) require public authorities to do?

Answer 36

* Consider human rights before making decisions * Act compatibly with human rights ## Footnote This act aims to uphold the rights of individuals within the Victorian community.

Question 37

What are the key aims of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022? (List at least three)

Answer 37

* Promote good mental health and well-being * Reduce inequities in accessing mental health services * Ensure compassionate, safe, and high-quality mental health care ## Footnote The Act aims to create a supportive environment for individuals with mental health needs.

Question 38

What is the principle of 'Dignity and Autonomy' under the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act?

Answer 38

Protect and promote the inherent worth and self-determination of each person, supporting their right to make decisions about their care. ## Footnote This principle emphasizes the importance of respecting individual choices.

Question 39

What does the principle of 'Least Restrictive Practices' entail?

Answer 39

Use the minimum level of restriction necessary, with hospitalisation or involuntary treatment as a last resort. ## Footnote This principle aims to support recovery while minimizing coercion.

Question 40

What are the criteria for an assessment order?

Answer 40

* The person appears to have mental illness * Immediate treatment is needed to prevent serious deterioration or harm * No less restrictive means available ## Footnote Assessment orders are crucial for ensuring timely intervention.

Question 41

What is the duration of a temporary treatment order?

Answer 41

Can last up to 28 days. ## Footnote This order is intended for urgent treatment needs.

Question 42

What rights are included in the Statement of Rights under the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act?

Answer 42

* Be informed, supported, and helped in decision-making * Choose a nominated support person * Seek legal representation * File complaints or appeal decisions * Have their culture and identity respected ## Footnote These rights empower individuals and ensure their voices are heard.

Question 43

1. What is mental illness?

Answer 43

A mental illness (or mental health condition/disorder) is a clinically significant disturbance in a person’s cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior that causes distress or impairment in key areas of functioning.

Question 44

2. What are the perspectives on causes of mental illness?

Answer 44

The The main perspectives include: - Biomedical: Emphasizes biological factors (e.g., chemical imbalances, genetics). - Psychological: Focuses on cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes. - Socioecological: Considers the interaction between individuals and their social/environmental context.main perspectives include:

Question 45

3. What is trauma?

Answer 45

Trauma is an emotional response to an extremely distressing or disturbing event, which can have lasting psychological and physical effects.

Question 46

4. What is stigma and how does it impact people living with mental illness?

Answer 46

Stigma consists of negative attitudes, stereotypes, and discrimination toward people with mental illness. It can lead to social isolation, lower self-esteem, delays in seeking help, and poorer health outcomes.

Question 47

5. What laws, policies, and frameworks guide our work with mental health consumers?

Answer 47

Key guides include the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act (2022), the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act (2006), and various recovery‐oriented, person-centred, and trauma-informed care models and policies.

Question 48

6. What are the 13 mental health and wellbeing principles in the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act (2022)?

Answer 48

They are: 1. Dignity and Autonomy 2. Diversity of Care 3. Least Restrictive Practices 4. Supported Decision Making 5. Family and Carers 6. Lived Experience 7. Health Needs 8. Dignity of Risk 9. Wellbeing of Young People 10. Diversity 11. Gender Safety 12. Cultural Safety 13. Wellbeing of Dependents

Question 49

7. What is the biopsychosocial model?

Answer 49

It’s a holistic model that explains mental illness as resulting from the interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors, guiding comprehensive assessment and treatment.

Question 50

8. (Principle 1) What does 'Dignity and Autonomy' entail?

Answer 50

It means protecting and promoting each person’s inherent worth and self-determination, ensuring they can make decisions about their own care.

Question 51

9. (Principle 2) What is meant by 'Diversity of Care'?

Answer 51

It ensures that a broad range of care and support services are available and tailored to an individual’s unique needs, preferences, and circumstances.

Question 52

10. (Principle 3) What does 'Least Restrictive Practices' refer to?

Answer 52

It involves providing care with the minimum level of restriction necessary—reserving more coercive measures only as a last resort—to support recovery and autonomy.

Question 53

11. (Principle 4) Explain 'Supported Decision Making'.

Answer 53

This means providing individuals with the support they need to make informed decisions about their treatment, even in situations where compulsory care might be involved.

Question 54

12. (Principle 5) What does the 'Family and Carers' principle emphasize?

Answer 54

It stresses involving families, carers, and supporters in the care process, recognizing their vital role in the person’s recovery journey.

Question 55

13. (Principle 6) Describe the 'Lived Experience' principle.

Answer 55

It values and integrates the insights gained from the personal experiences of individuals and their carers, using that knowledge to inform service delivery and decision-making.

Question 56

14. (Principle 7) What does the 'Health Needs' principle address?

Answer 56

It requires that all aspects of health—physical, mental, and substance use—be addressed, acknowledging their interconnectedness in overall wellbeing.

Question 57

15. (Principle 8) What is meant by 'Dignity of Risk'?

Answer 57

It is the right of individuals to take reasonable risks that promote personal growth and enhance quality of life, rather than being overly restricted.

Question 58

16. (Principle 9) What does 'Wellbeing of Young People' involve?

Answer 58

It involves providing age-appropriate support and services to ensure the mental health and overall wellbeing of children and young people.

Question 59

17. (Principle 10) Define the 'Diversity' principle.

Answer 59

This principle acknowledges and accommodates varied backgrounds, identities, and experiences, ensuring that care is inclusive and accessible to all.

Question 60

18. (Principle 11) What does 'Gender Safety' ensure?

Answer 60

It ensures that care practices are sensitive to gender-specific needs and create a safe environment for individuals of all genders.

Question 61

19. (Principle 12) Explain 'Cultural Safety'.

Answer 61

It requires that care respects and integrates the cultural values, identities, and practices of individuals, especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other diverse groups.

Question 62

20. (Principle 13) What is 'Wellbeing of Dependents' about?

Answer 62

It focuses on considering the needs of dependents (e.g., children, family members) in care planning, recognizing that family wellbeing is integral to individual recovery.

Question 63

21. Revision Quiz Q1: The Mental Health and Wellbeing Act (2022) contains 12 mental health and wellbeing principles. (True/False)

Answer 63

False. (Feedback: The Act contains 13 principles.)

Question 64

22. Revision Quiz Q2: According to the least restrictive principle, mental health and wellbeing services must restrict a person’s rights, dignity, and autonomy as little as possible to promote recovery and full community participation. (True/False)

Answer 64

True. (Feedback: Correct.)

Question 65

23. Revision Quiz Q3: The terms “the schizophrenic” and “person suffering from depression” are acceptable to use. (True/False)

Answer 65

False. (Feedback: Person-first language should be used.)

Question 66

24. Revision Quiz Q4: For people living with mental illness, recovery could be described as being on a journey toward wellness and happiness. (True/False)

Answer 66

True. (Feedback: Recovery is a journey involving personal growth and progress.)

Question 67

25. Revision Quiz Q5: Recovery in mental health support means ensuring a person is completely free of symptoms. (True/False)

Answer 67

False. (Feedback: Recovery is about living a meaningful life despite symptoms, not necessarily being symptom-free.)

Question 68

26. Revision Quiz Q6: From a biomedical perspective on mental illness, treatment includes a holistic view of wellbeing that goes beyond symptom management. (True/False)

Answer 68

False. (Feedback: The biomedical approach primarily focuses on biological aspects and symptom management.)