Mental Health Affairs

All individuals, whether diagnosed with a mental health condition or not, have limitations. Some limitations are glaringly obvious, while others are subtle, known only to the individual grappling with them internally. In mental health discussions, we often hear about “interfering symptoms” or “functional impairments,” but these terms can sometimes misguide treatment objectives. As a practicing therapist, I’ve been part of discussions that reveal a dire need to rethink what “treatment fit” means when helping people heal and manage functional impairments.

The Limitation of Symptom-Focused Treatment

Mental health professionals often draft treatment plans to alleviate symptoms that interfere with a person’s quality of life. While this approach is well-intentioned, it may be missing the mark. Targeting symptoms is not universally effective, especially when dealing with chronic conditions that may not be fully resolvable.

In some cases, symptoms are not directly tied to a particular diagnosis; they could be manifestations of personality traits or other factors. This raises an important question: Should the focus of treatment be on the symptoms, or should it be aimed at improving the person’s overall functionality?

The Need for a Functionality-Centric Approach

Instead of emphasizing symptoms, we should aim to strengthen the weak points in a person’s functioning. Doing so may significantly improve their quality of life, even if the symptoms aren’t completely eradicated. Prioritizing functionality over symptoms acknowledges that while some conditions may be chronic and untreatable, improvements can still be made in managing daily life.

The Reality of Ongoing Care

Regarding mental health, complete “healing” might not always be feasible. Many individuals have chronic conditions requiring continuous, daily care, like a patient with emphysema who needs ongoing oxygen therapy. Pretending that a miraculous cure is just around the corner is not only misleading but can also set people up for disappointment and setbacks.

Towards Better Self-Management

True healing isn’t always about eliminating the problem; sometimes, it’s about managing it effectively to lead the life you want. Practical self-management skills, therefore, are crucial. This could mean anything from taking medication regularly, engaging in therapy, or employing coping strategies during periods of stress. The solution, imperfect as it may be, is often better than endlessly chasing a problem that might never be fully resolved.

Conclusion

Shifting the focus of mental health treatment from merely addressing symptoms to enhancing overall functionality provides a more holistic approach. This aligns better with the complexities and variabilities of mental health conditions and enables individuals to gain more control over their lives. After all, isn’t that what true healing should aim to achieve?