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The Importance of Good Mental Health for Psychologists

March 22, 2023

6 min read

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Author : United We Care
Clinically approved by : Dr.Vasudha
The Importance of Good Mental Health for Psychologists

Introduction

Mental health refers to the well-being of our psychological state, and it involves our thoughts, emotions, feelings, and several other factors impacting our mental state and lifestyle. Although people concern themselves with maintaining and protecting their physical bodies, they tend to underestimate their minds and what they are feeling.Like physical health, mental health is influenced by numerous factors. Anything from our environment, schools, colleges, and workplaces can affect our mental health. A psychologist can help us when we feel distressed, overwhelmed, or stressed over our thoughts and emotions. We often overlook the importance of good mental health for psychologists.[1]

The importance of good mental health for psychologists

People most likely fail to notice and comprehend the importance of good mental health for psychologists. These professionals constantly immerse themselves in trauma, negative and abnormal thoughts, and various emotions about different situations and individuals. As we all know, our environment is pivotal in our perception, thoughts, feelings, and overall mental state.[2] Psychologists regularly interact with distressed and excessively traumatised patients, adversely affecting their minds and leading to disorders. They are bound to establish and retain a confidential and intimate relationship with their patients. Yet, they must not be too attached or engaged with them. This bond is peculiar and challenging, and it demands a great deal of energy from psychologists, leading to exhaustion and job burnout.This shocking reality of their occupation makes them more vulnerable to emotional stress and psychological disorders. And this vulnerability emphasises the importance of good mental health for psychologists[3] .

The benefits of good mental health for psychologists

Studies show that many practising psychologists have personal experiences of undergoing mental disorders. This unique experience has helped them empathise, connect and comprehend their patients’ emotions more efficiently. However, it has also made them more vulnerable and prone to developing mental problems. Here are a few advantages of providing good healthcare services and ensuring the mental well-being of psychologists[4]:

  • Maintaining good mental health will help psychologists cope more effectively with real-life problems, trauma, and other issues. Having a stable mental state will enable them to face any hurdles.
  • Mental health and self-esteem depend on each other. Lack of belief in oneself and low self-confidence can lead to a poor mental state. Keeping one’s mental well-being in check will boost confidence. Psychologists will then develop a positive self-image and have greater self-esteem.
  • Psychologists can ensure great mental well-being and establish healthier client relationships by following a self-care routine. It becomes easier for them to understand and provide a supporting shoulder to their patients.
  • Since stressful scenarios constantly surround psychologists, a stable mental state can help them be more productive and efficient in their workspaces. Finding the proper professional and personal balance can help enhance productivity.
  • Finally, good mental health enhances the quality of life and helps psychologists enjoy life to the fullest. A happy practitioner will be a successful one too.

The consequences of poor mental health for psychologists

The following are the probable consequences of poor mental health for psychologists:

  • Suppose we ignore the mental health of a psychologist. In that case, it can lead to psychological disorders such as depression, suicidal tendencies, isolation from society and other personal relationship circles, job burnout, conflicts and problems in interpersonal relationships, and other stress-related ailments.
  • Poor mental health for psychologists has equal consequences for the patients they treat, and patients can lose trust in the therapy method and may even feel guilt and suicidal tendencies. The unstable mental state of psychologists can result in an inaccurate diagnosis of symptoms, and it might also violate therapist-patient boundaries.
  • When we don’t work to ensure good mental health for psychologists, it can inadvertently affect the profession of psychology. It can lead to losing trust and faith in the branch, lawsuits, and other legal procedures.

Tips for managing mental health for psychologists

The following are a few practices psychologists can adopt to prevent the consequences mentioned above and ensure proper mental health:

Tips for managing mental health for psychologists

  • Make lifestyle changes: Exercise regularly and stay healthy and fit. Get the proper hours of sleep and rest. Set aside time to spend with loved ones and friends and maintain good relationships.
  • Seek professional help: If needed, psychologists can also seek help from other professionals to help guide their thoughts and emotions in the right direction. They can also express their concerns and communicate on a healthier and more supportive note.
  • Connect with peers: Make sure to maintain connections with peers and colleagues. It will help seek guidance on a specific psychological area and discuss its nature and other aspects.
  • Practice self-care: Strike the proper balance between work and personal life. Set aside time for our favourite hobbies, such as singing, dancing, playing an instrument, or cooking.
  • Comprehend the true nature of the job: Psychologists must also thoroughly understand the actual demands of their position regarding workload, responsibilities, and vulnerability to illnesses.
  • Learn more about vulnerability: Understanding and educating ourselves and others about the occupational hazards of being a psychologist is vital. Such awareness will also help promote better mental health for psychologists.

Conclusion

Some psychologists may seem exhausted, acting aloof, forgetful, and constantly thinking and talking about their patients. They may prefer staying isolated from their family and close circles. In these cases, these psychologists are likely experiencing unstable emotions and thoughts. For psychologists to be successful in their field, they must gain emotional and mental stability. Only then can they successfully help their patients. Doing away with the stigma surrounding psychological and mental disorders is essential.Society must overcome the embarrassment of seeking a professional psychologist’s help or scheduling therapy sessions. Seeking help can improve a person’s mental state. Psychologists are people, too and may need support, mainly due to the tricky nature of their work. We must recognise the importance of good mental health for psychologists.

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References

  1. S. Tay, K. Alcock, and K. Scior, “Mental health problems among clinical psychologists: Stigma and its impact on disclosure and help-seeking: TAY et al.,” J. Clin. Psychol., vol. 74, no. 9, pp. 1545–1555, 2018.
  2. Professional health and well-being for psychologists,” American Psychological Association, 23-Sep-2008. [Online]. Available: https://www.apaservices.org/practice/ce/self-care/well-being. [Accessed: 06-Mar-2023].
  3. A. Devendorf and S. Victor, “Psychologists are starting to talk publicly about their mental illnesses – and patients can benefit,” The Conversation, 29-Apr-2022.
  4. E. Plumptre, “The importance of mental health,” Verywell Mind, 15-Nov-2021. [Online]. Available: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-importance-of-mental-health-for-wellbeing-5207938. [Accessed: 06-Mar-2023].
  5. M. D. Braquehais and S. Vargas-Cáceres, “Psychiatric issues among health professionals,” Med. Clin. North Am., vol. 107, no. 1, pp. 131–142, 2023.

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Author : United We Care

Founded in 2020, United We Care (UWC) is providing mental health and wellness services at a global level, UWC utilizes its team of dedicated and focused professionals with expertise in mental healthcare, to solve 2 essential missing components in the market, sustained user engagement and program efficacy/outcomes.

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