Components of biopsychosocial model
Biological
Psychological
Social
Biological component of biopsychosocial model
genetic determinants, brain development
Psychological component of biopsychosocial model
thoughts, behaviour/coping, self-concept, self-awareness
Social component of biopsychosocial model
connectedness, context, maltreatment
What are the components of the biopychosocial model?
Not mutually exclusive, interact with each other
Distal risk factors
Trauma, abuse, neglect, bullying in childhood
Adversity in form of chaotic, unsafe or insecure home environment
Poor early attachment relationship and or early loss
Poor quality of nutrition, sleep, recreational opportunities
Family history of mental disorders
Proximal risk factors
Social isolation or exclusion
Non-supportive or abusive relationships
Alcohol binging
Regular cannabis use or substance misuse
Poor quality sleep
Non-regular exercise
Poor emotional and behavioural self-regulation
Symptoms of anxiety, worry or depression
Chronic stress that feels out of control
Distal protective factors
Secure attachments
Nurturing and compassionate relationships growing up
Safe and secure home environment
Proximal protective factors
Healthy coping strategies
Social support
Security and stability
Good sleep hygiene
No substance misuse
Healthy study-life balance
Indicators of possible mental health concern
Changes in feelings
Changes in behaviour
Changes in thinking
Sustained change
Changes in feelings
Irritable, sad, anxious
Mood swings
Lonely even when not alone
Sensitive, easily hurt or angry
Decreased hope, lack caring, sense of dread
Changes in behaviour
Stop attending classes
Give up hobbies and previously enjoyable activities
Withdraw from social events
Poor sleep
Arguments with friends
Unhealthy ways of coping
Changes in thinking
Poor concentration
Self-criticism
Over-worry
Pessimism
Thoughts of self-harm
Sustained change
The difficult feelings interfere with friendships or school
The difficult feelings do not go away
Others who know you notice a change or that you are struggling
Mental health resources and services
Online well-being resources
Counselling (queens student wellness)
Family doctor
24-hour hotlines
Hospital urgent care
Ongoing support services: psychologist or psychotherapist
Contributions to increased demand of mental health and well-being support
Brain undergoing accelerated growth and is sensitive to what it is exposed to
Students experiencing many changes such as leaving home, more responsibility etc.
Stigma related to reporting mental health problems is decreasing
Adjusting to new circumstances or life events
Why are off-campus clinical services not sufficient to meet student mental health support needs?
Often target adults with chronic and persistent mental illness, however many students have clinically symptoms but may not have a persistent or serious mental illness
Students need quick access to support bs of shirt academic terms
Community services often not tailored for student demographic
What characteristics are most important for a university mental health services?
Proactive and preventative
Health promotion focused
Engaging
Student friendly and accessible (short wait times)
Compassionate
Helpful from first contact
Tailed to meet individual student needs
