Health Psychology

BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL MODEL OF HEALTH.

What is Health Psychology? Health psychology focuses on how our biology, social context and
psychological states influence health and illness.  The traditional view of health is that the mind
and body are separate entities.  However, we now know from scientific studies that the mind and
body are intimately connected (i.e., via neurochemistry) and that changes in physical health
can influence mental and emotional health (and vice versa). The nature of our relationships with
others also can affect our overall health. By examining how these factors influence each other, we
can develop ways to improve our physical and psychological health and well-being.  This is
known as the biopsychosocial approach to understanding health and well-being (see diagram to
the left). 

How does our Mental or Emotional Health and Well-being affect our Physical Health?
Poorer mental/emotional health can increase risk of developing health problems through the
following:

 Suppression of immune function [1]; for a recent review, see [2]

 Poor health behaviours (e.g., smoking, drinking alcohol excessively, sedentary lifestyle,
poor dietary choices)
 Not following medical recommendations.  For instance, depressed patients are three times
more likely not to follow medical treatment recommendations compared with non-depressed patients
[3].

Thus, to optimize overall health, it is necessary to address the health and wellness of mind, body,
and spirit, rather than to focus solely on the physical components of health.  This view consistent
with the World Health Organization's definition of health, that it is a "state of complete physical,
mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."  
For References: click here

Dr. Ong is especially interested in helping patients and their family members adjust to and live
better with their health related concerns, such as in the following areas:
Health Promotion.  Psychology services are available to assist individuals who may be at risk for
developing a more serious health issue due to their lifestyle habits, such as poor diet, sedentary
lifestyle, work/life imbalance, or lack of stress reduction skills. 

Chronic Pain. Chronic pain is a persistent daily stressor that can change one's ability to
participate in valued daily activities, such as work, leisure and social activities. As a result, people
with chronic pain often report experiencing changes in mood (anger, frustration, low mood, fear),
poor sleep, increased stress, increased muscle tension, strained personal relationships, and feelings
of helplessness.  These changes can worsen the overall pain experience and pain-related suffering.

Cardiac Psychology.  Learning to live with a heart condition can be challenging as it can affect

many aspects of one's life.  Patients may have concerns about undergoing treatment, taking new
medications, and making heart-healthy lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity,
making dietary changes, moderating alcohol use, quitting smoking and managing stress.  Other
areas of concern include changes in mood (feeling shocked, confused, overwhelmed, angry,
sad/blue, fearful), worry about health, worry about dying, and changes in personal relationships.   

Adjusting to a New Medical Diagnosis.  Receiving a new and major medical diagnosis such as a
heart attack, cancer, or organ failure can be difficult emotionally and bring forth powerful
feelings such as a sense of loss, shock, confusion, disbelief, anger, fear, and sadness.  Making
sense of these feelings and life changes and trying re-establish a new normal way of being can be
a challenging process.  Many also find it difficult to relate to others during this period of
adjustment.