Psychopathology is the study of mental disorders including factors such as their biological, genetic, social, and psychological causes. It also comprises of the development, manifestation, and the treatment of the mental disorders. On the other hand, a normal mental function is when all the brain activities integrate with the bodily systems to ensure that an individual acquires both physical and emotional well-being.
Several steps can be taken when one wants to assist someone with a mental disorder. However, the first step is important because it involves providing the patient with quality information regarding their respective disorder. Many mental illnesses have been undiagnosed because the victim is not aware that their symptoms are not normal.
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Three important criteria can be used to determine the presence of a mental disorder in an individual. First is when the behavior of the person is in violation of the acceptable cultural standards. Secondly, the person exhibits behavior that is likely to harm them or people surrounding them. Thirdly, is when the individual is suffering from distress.
In mental health, diagnosis is important for both the doctor and the patient. It helps the therapists to advice the patient on the most appropriate treatment and the possibility of any future risk. The diagnosis is also crucial in case the patient wants to qualify for social services and protection by relevant bodies.
The only disadvantage that might exist with diagnosis or labelling the symptoms is that this is not an automatic way of relieving the manifestation of the disorder, but only a positive way of getting treatment and the protection of the rights of an individual.
It is important for me as a social worker diagnosing a mental disorder to be aware of culture as a function of the diagnostic process to assist me in overcoming biases. In this regard, I should be cognizant of several factors that include the cultural variables, the individual strengths and weaknesses of each patient, family information, and other explanatory models.