Posted: September 6th, 2023

Exploring Abnormal Psychology in Australia: A Discussion Essay Analysis

Exploring Abnormal Psychology in Australia: A Discussion Essay Analysis

Abnormal psychology is a fascinating field that explores the human psyche and behavior. It involves studying the psychological disorders and abnormalities that people experience, and the impact of these disorders on their lives. In Australia, this field is becoming increasingly important as more people are seeking treatment for psychological disorders. In this article, we will explore abnormal psychology in Australia and the latest research in the field.

Understanding Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that deals with the study of abnormal behavior, mental illness, and psychological disorders. This field seeks to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment of these disorders, as well as their impact on the individual and society.

In Australia, abnormal psychology is a growing field, with more and more people seeking help for mental health issues. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, one in five Australians experience mental health issues every year. These mental health issues can range from anxiety and depression to more severe disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

The Importance of Abnormal Psychology in Australia

Abnormal psychology is an important field in Australia, as mental health issues are a growing concern. Mental health issues not only affect individuals but also have a significant impact on the economy and society as a whole. In Australia, it is estimated that mental illness costs the economy around $60 billion per year in lost productivity and healthcare costs.

Furthermore, mental health issues can have a significant impact on the individual’s quality of life, affecting their relationships, career, and overall well-being. It is, therefore, essential to understand and treat these disorders to improve the individual’s quality of life and reduce the burden on society.

The Latest Research in Abnormal Psychology in Australia

The study of abnormal psychology in Australia is constantly evolving, with new research shedding light on the causes, symptoms, and treatments of psychological disorders. Below are some of the latest research findings in the field.

The Role of Genetics in Mental Health
Recent research has shown that genetics plays a significant role in mental health. A study by the Queensland Brain Institute found that genetic factors account for around 40% of the risk of developing a mental health disorder. This research is essential as it highlights the need for early intervention and genetic testing to identify individuals at risk of developing mental health disorders.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health worldwide. In Australia, the pandemic has led to an increase in anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. According to a study by the Black Dog Institute, one in five Australians experienced high levels of psychological distress during the pandemic. This research highlights the need for increased mental health support and resources to help individuals cope with the impact of the pandemic.

The Effectiveness of Online Therapy
Online therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years, and research has shown that it can be an effective treatment for mental health disorders. A study by the University of Sydney found that online cognitive-behavioral therapy was just as effective as face-to-face therapy in treating anxiety and depression. This research is significant as it highlights the need for more accessible mental health services, especially in remote areas.

The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention is crucial in treating mental health disorders and preventing their long-term impact on the individual. A study by the Australian National University found that early intervention for mental health disorders can lead to significant long-term improvements in the individual’s quality of life. This research highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of mental health disorders.

Abnormal psychology is an important field in Australia, as mental health issues are a growing concern. It is essential to understand and treat these disorders to improve the individual’s quality of life and reduce the burden on society. The latest research in the
field highlights the importance of early intervention, genetics, and online therapy in addressing mental health issues.

References
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2018). National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing: Summary of Results, 2018. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/mental-health/national-survey-mental-health-and-wellbeing-summary-results/latest-release

Hickie, I. B., Rogers, N. L., & Christensen, H. (2015). Depression and anxiety in Australia: The need for prevention and early intervention. Medical Journal of Australia, 202(4), 184-186. doi: 10.5694/mja14.01113

Miller, S. D., Hubble, M. A., & Chow, D. L. (2015). Seizing the opportunities of technology for psychotherapy and beyond. Psychotherapy, 52(1), 1-8. doi: 10.1037/pst0000018

Parker, G., Gladstone, G., Chee, K. T., & Chee, K. Y. (2016). Do early intervention and treatment for mental illness improve the long-term quality of life of those affected? Psychiatry Research, 240, 202-207. doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.04.001

van der Auwera, S., & Kalkman, S. (2021). The genetic basis of mental illness essay. Neuropsychopharmacology, 46(1), 151-156. doi: 10.1038/s41386-020-00834-x

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Sample Abnormal Psychology Case Study, Writing Guide

Case Study: John

John is a 35-year-old man who lives in Sydney, Australia. He has been struggling with anxiety and depression for several years and has recently lost his job. John has noticed that his symptoms have worsened since he lost his job, and he is finding it challenging to manage his daily activities. He has been feeling more irritable, restless, and has difficulty sleeping at night. John is concerned that his mental health issues will prevent him from finding another job.

Analysis:

John’s case highlights the prevalence of mental health issues in Australia and the significant impact that they can have on an individual’s life. Anxiety and depression are common mental health disorders, affecting approximately 1 in 4 Australians at some point in their life (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2018). Losing a job can be a significant stressor and can exacerbate existing mental health issues, as is the case with John.

Early intervention is crucial in addressing mental health disorders and preventing them from worsening. John should seek professional help from a mental health practitioner, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can assess his symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. This may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Online therapy may also be a suitable option for John, as it can be accessed from the comfort of his own home, and there is evidence to suggest that it can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy (Miller, Hubble, & Chow, 2015). Support groups, such as those run by mental health organizations, can also provide valuable social support and reduce feelings of isolation.

It is important to address the stigma surrounding mental health disorders to encourage individuals like John to seek help without fear of judgment or discrimination. Mental health awareness campaigns, such as those run by mental health organizations, can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and promote help-seeking behavior.

Answer:

John’s case highlights the importance of early intervention in addressing mental health disorders and the significant impact that they can have on an individual’s life. Seeking professional help, such as therapy or medication, can assist in managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Online therapy and support groups may also be suitable options for individuals who are unable to access face-to-face therapy.

It is important to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health disorders and promote mental health awareness in society. This can be achieved through education and advocacy, as well as increased funding for mental health research and treatment.

In summary, John’s case emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health in society and addressing mental health issues early on to improve an individual’s quality of life.

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