REGIONAL PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT

INITIATIVE (REPSSI)
DIPLOMA PROGRAM – CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH

NAME : KABUKU WAMUNEO

NRC NO. :

PHONE NO. :

STUDENT NO. :2208090043

NAME OF COURSE :.PSYCHOSOCIAL

NAME OF LECTURE :

COURSE CODE :

ASSIGNMENT NO. :4

INTAKE :SECOND YEAR,2024

DUE DATE :

DISTRICT :LIVINGSTONE

PROVINCE :SOUTHERN.
QUESTION : The relationship between psychosocial support and mental health

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The relationship between psychosocial support and mental health is intricately linked.
Psychosocial support refers to the emotional, social, and practical support provided to individuals
to help them cope with stress, trauma, or mental health issues (WHO, 2019). Mental health, on
the other hand, refers to the well-being of an individual's emotional, psychological, and social
functioning (WHO, 2019). The two are interconnected, as psychosocial support can significantly
impact an individual's mental health.

However, research has shown that psychosocial support can enhance mental health by providing
emotional support, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting coping skills (Cohen et al., 2015).
It can also improve self-esteem and confidence (Harter, 1999), foster a sense of belonging and
social connection (Cohen et al., 2015), encourage healthy behaviors and lifestyle choices (WHO,
2019), and support individuals in managing mental health conditions, such as depression and
anxiety disorders (NAMI, 2020).

Secondly ,the concepts of psychosocial support and mental health are intricately linked and
essential for overall well-being. Psychosocial support refers to the emotional, social, and
practical support provided to individuals to help them cope with stress, trauma, or adversity. This
support can come from various sources, including family and friends, mental health
professionals, support groups, and community resources. (Cohen et al., 2015).

Mental health, on the other hand, refers to the state of well-being that enables individuals to
handle the stresses of life, realize their potential, and contribute to their communities. Good
mental health is characterized by emotional resilience, positive relationships, coping skills, self-
awareness, and self-esteem. (Cohen et al., 2015).

How ever ,the connection between psychosocial support and mental health is that the former can
significantly impact the latter. Receiving appropriate psychosocial support can help individuals
develop coping strategies, build resilience, enhance self-esteem, improve relationships, and
manage stress and anxiety. Conversely, a lack of psychosocial support can exacerbate mental
health issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. (NAMI, 2020).

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Moreover, psychosocial support can also play a critical role in preventing mental health issues
from arising in the first place. By providing individuals with a sense of belonging, self-worth,
and emotional security, psychosocial support can help mitigate the effects of stress and trauma.
Furthermore, psychosocial support can also promote healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise,
healthy eating, and adequate sleep, which are essential for maintaining good mental health.

In addition, psychosocial support can also be a vital component of treatment for mental health
issues. Mental health professionals can provide individuals with the tools and strategies needed
to manage their symptoms and improve their mental health. Support groups can also offer a
sense of community and connection, which is essential for recovery. (Cohen et al., 2015)

psychosocial support and mental health are closely linked concepts that are essential for overall
well-being. Receiving appropriate psychosocial support can help individuals develop coping
strategies, build resilience, and promote good mental health. Conversely, a lack of psychosocial
support can exacerbate mental health issues. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the importance
of psychosocial support in maintaining good mental health and seeking help when needed.

Furthermore,the role of psychosocial support in mental health is multifaceted. It provides

emotional support and validation (Cohen et al., 2015), offers practical assistance, such as help
with daily tasks (WHO, 2019), facilitates social connections and community engagement (Cohen
et al., 2015), encourages self-care and stress management (WHO, 2019), and supports
individuals in navigating mental health services (NAMI, 2020).

On another hand ,the Relationship Between Psychosocial Support and Mental

Health.Psychosocial support (PSS) plays a crucial role in promoting mental well-being. Here are
some key points: PSS refers to interventions that aim to relieve stress, enhance coping
mechanisms, and foster emotional resilience.(NAMI, 2020).

On another hand ,it encompasses both psychological and social aspects, recognizing that mental
health is influenced by our interactions with others and our environment.Mental health and
psychosocial well-being are deeply interconnected.

Moreover ,Poor mental health can hinder daily functioning, impact relationships, and affect
overall quality of life. Conversely, effective psychosocial support can prevent mental health
conditions and improve existing ones (Harter, 1999).

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Never the less , Psychosocial support helps mitigate risk factors for mental health
issues.Protective factors include social connections, emotional support, coping skills, and a sense
of purpose.PSS strengthens these protective factors, reducing vulnerability to mental health
challenges. Harter, S. (1999).

On another hand, the he role and benefits of Psychosocial Support in Mental Health**PSS
focuses on prevention by promoting mental well-being. It educates individuals about stress
management, coping strategies, and emotional regulation. (NAMI, 2020).

People who have good health can still have underlying emotional problems and mental problems.
This can be caused by a physical imbalance in the brain, stress, family problems and stressful
work/education can make it worse.(Harter,1999).

Furthermore,These mental and physical feelings can cause the individual to become divided and
live a separate life from others in society. The negativity of a mental health problem will hinder
the individuals natural potentialities in life such an early education, work, marital and become
unsociable (Harter, 1999).

In addition ,Lots of people who are emotionally healthy have learned to cope with their stresses
and problems by seeking help from the doctor. Being mentally or emotionally healthy is much
better for each individual than being a sufferer of depression, anxiety, dementia, Alzheimer and
other psychological issues. One way to deal with stress is the ability to be able to learn and
change ones life style, in a positive manner and being able to maintain a fulfilling happy
relationship thus giving you self confidence (Beck,1987).

However ,to improve and maintain a balanced mental health you need to take care of yourself
everyday and try to follow a regime of rest, good nutrition, and exercise, limit alcohol and try not
to use cigarettes or drugs. Key points that can exacerbate someone with a metal health problem
can be on receiving bad news such as redundancy, divorce, bereavement or financial situations
can contribute negatively to a person developing a mental health problem (Holmes ,1967).

Never the less ,Mental health is not a debilitating condition and with the right help and support
an individual can lead a full happy and meaningful life style .Mental illness may be experienced
by people who have a mental health problem so severe that they may get a diagnosis as having a
mental illness, which will involve the services and support of a specialist mental health care

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team. It can be an on going experience from mental wellbeing through to a severe and enduring
mental illness affecting a person’s overall emotional and psychological condition. Consequently,
some people with mental illness will need no support, others may need only occasional support,
and still others may require more substantial, ongoing support to maintain their quality of life.
(Cohen et al., 2015)

Furthermore, to understand the difference between mental health and mental illness specifically
relates to both the length of time and severity of the changes to a person’s behaviour thought
patterns and display of emotions. The more severe and lengthy the impact of these changes, the
more a person may struggle to manage their everyday life and the greater the chances of them
developing a mental illness. Generally speaking, people with a lower stress threshold are more
susceptible to developing a mental illness”. (Wong 2006)

However, by addressing stressors early, PSS prevents the escalation of mental health problems.
PSS creates supportive environments at various levels (individual, family, community)It
encourages open communication, empathy, and active listening ( Harter, S. (1999).

Furthermore, PSS extends beyond clinical settings. Community-based programs involve peer
support groups, community leaders, and educators. These programs destigmatize mental health
issues and promote early intervention. (Cohen et al., 2015)

However ,PSS empowers individuals to actively participate in decisions affecting their mental
health. It emphasizes self-care, self-advocacy, and autonomy. PSS integrates mental health with
other aspects of well-being (physical health, social connectedness, economic stability).

In addition, holistic care improves overall quality of life, psychosocial support is a vital
component of mental health promotion, prevention, and recovery. By fostering resilience,
empathy, and community, it contributes to a healthier, more compassionate world. (Cohen et al.,
2015)

In conclusion, psychosocial support plays a vital role in maintaining good mental health. By
providing emotional, social, and practical support, individuals can better cope with stress,
trauma, and mental health issues. The benefits of psychosocial support are numerous, and it is
essential to recognize its importance in promoting overall mental health and well-being.

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References:

Cohen, S., Gottlieb, B. H., & Underwood, L. G. (2015). Social relationships and mortality: A
review of the literature. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 9(2), 145-164.

Harter, S. (1999). The construction of self-esteem in children and adolescents. In M. H. Kernis

(Ed.), Self-esteem: A sourcebook (pp. 15-40). Springer.

MHA (2020). Peer Support. Mental Health America.

NAMI (2020). Support. National Alliance on Mental Illness.

WHO (2019). Mental Health. World Health Organization.