understanding the different models of mental health can help you find a helpful therapist (and avoid harmful ones)

To be able to best advocate for yourself when seeing a mental health professional, it is essential that you have at least a base-level understanding of the different theoretical and philosophical approaches to understanding mental health, disorder, illness, distress, oppression, and abuse. The dominant framework in most Western countries is the medical model – this model pathologizes the human experience. It attempts to explain away suffering and trauma by labeling certain behaviors (and personalities) as “disordered” or by saying symptoms are caused by chemical imbalances in our brains. There is just one problem with the medical model of mental health: it is just a theory. It is not proven. Most mental health professionals are fully aware of this; they don’t discuss it with patients. In this episode, we discuss the other theoretical frameworks of mental health that are emerging with new research – primarily the “trauma-informed” framework - and why many believe this is a more effective (and much less harmful) way of approaching mental health treatment.↓ Want to unlock ALL my BPD-related episodes? Scroll to the bottom of this post for more info. ↓ Together, we’ll explore all of the currently existing models of mental health:■ The medical model■ The social model■ The biopsychosocial model■ The trauma-informed model Through the discussion, analysis, and critiques of each of these models, you will come away better informed and more prepared to advocate for yourself when seeking mental health care. This may also illuminate and validate why some individuals have felt worse after seeing a mental health provider who is 100% bought into the medical model. Recommended resources:■ The IG post by Dr. Jessica Taylor that inspired this episode■ Article by Mad in America | “Researchers Critique the Medical Model”■ YouTube video by Dr. James Davies | Mental Health, Capitalism & the Sedation of a Nation Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of exclusive content on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.