Strengths Perspective in Mental Health （优势视角在心理健康）.pdfVIP

Strength Based Strategies - 2006 Strengths Perspective in Mental Health (Evidence Based Case Study) Rangan Aarti, Sekar K. Mental health services are primarily concerned with early diagnosis and treatment, apart from preserva tion and promotion of good mental health and prevention of mental illness. Over the past few years, a strengths-based approach to case management with people with severe mental illness has emerged. This paper reviews empirical evidence and illustrates an evidence based case study to validate the existing literature on the strengths perspective in treating mental illness. The exploration of the strengths perspective as it relates to the evidence based case study shows that the strengths perspective influences both the well-being and the coping of people with mental illness. Introduction Psychiatry ascribes and uses the disease model in treating mental health problems and mental illnesses. The tenets of the disease model of diagnosing the deficits are used to prescribe pharmacology and psychosocial treatment, to help the persons with mental illness cope with their problems. However, over the years, a shift in perspective from the diagnostic approach to a more functional approach, i.e. using a strengths-based approach to case management with people with severe mental illness has emerged (Saleebey, 1992; Sullivan Rapp, 1994; Weick, Rapp, Sullivan Kisthardt, 1989). Though the strengths approach, with its emphasis on growth and change, collaborative relationship, and the centre of change located in the client, is diametrically opposite to the pathology based approach used in treating mental illness; it still shows promise in improving the well being and quality of life of persons with mental illness (Saleebey