Medical Conditions and Psychological Diagnosis

Discussion 1: Mood Disorders and the Client

Although you may have experienced intense sadness or overt happiness within a given situation, chances are these emotions were not long-lasting. Research has shown diagnoses of mood disorders highlight two specific, factors: severity and consistency. Clients suffering from mood disorders may also present a variety of chronic, maladaptive thoughts, such as suicidal ideation, and behaviors, such as suicide attempts. Although suicidal ideation and suicide attempts may be associated with particular disorders, they are not specific to one disorder or another.

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For this Discussion, you apply your knowledge of the DSM to the client case study located in the Learning Resources. Think about your rationale for this diagnosis. Also, consider client risk factors for suicide.

With these thoughts in mind:

Post by Day 3 a diagnosis of the client in the case study. Then explain your rationale for assigning on the basis of the DSM. Finally, explain whether this person is at risk for suicide and how you might specifically assess them for suicide. Justify your response with client data and the current literature.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources and current literature.

Discussion 2: Medical Conditions and the Psychological Diagnosis

When diagnosing a client with a particular psychological pathology or disorder, it is essential to consider whether the client has a medical condition. At times, medical conditions may contribute to a person’s psychological disorder. For example, the hormonal changes associated with aging for both men and women may mimic symptoms of a mood disorder. To effectively treat this person, a psychologist must address both the medical and psychological aspects of their condition. With many factors to consider, psychologists must be careful to address the symptoms of disorder accurately. A psychologist’s personal scope of competency related to client diagnosis is critical in order to effectively address other diagnostic factors to other providers.

For this Discussion, consider the differences between medical conditions and psychological disorders. Also, within your personal scope of competency, think about ways to minimize misdiagnosis of clients. Consider best practices for diagnosis and treatment within your scope of competency.

With these thoughts in mind:

Post by Day 4 an example of how medical conditions might mimic psychological disorders. Then explain two ways you might minimize instances of misdiagnosing a medical condition as a psychological disorder. Finally, explain actions you might take within your scope of personal competency if you suspect a medical condition and why.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources and current literature.

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