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Professional Development Portfolio of Mental Health Today

Student’s Name

Institutional Affiliation

Course Name and Course ID

Date
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Section 1: Appendix
Topic 2: Mental Health Data and Statistics
1. Reflection on European mental health trends (300 words)
Europeans have experienced significant increase in the prevalence of mental health problems in the past
few decades. According to the Eurostat report published on 12 July 2018, mental disorders account for a
substantial disease burden in Europe, with anxiety and depression being the most common mental health
challenges affecting the population (Hodgkin et al., 2020). The report highlights that prevalence of mental
disorders in Europe varies considerably by age, gender, and country. The Eurostat (2018) provides
statistical insights into mental health and Alzheimer's disease in different countries across Europe. In terms
of mental health, the prevalence of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder varies
across Western and Eastern European countries. According to the Eurostat report, the highest prevalence of
depression is observed in Greece (14.7%), followed by Portugal (12.7%), and Slovenia (12.5%). The lowest
prevalence of depression is observed in Denmark (4.8%), Estonia (5.2%), and Finland (5.3%). Analysing
Eastern European countries, the highest prevalence of depression is observed in Latvia (8.5%), followed by
Lithuania (8.1%), and the lowest is observed in Bulgaria (3.9%), Romania (4.6%), and Hungary (5.2%)
(Eurostat, 2018).
For instance, women in countries have higher rates of depression and anxiety than men, and young people
are likely to experience mental health problems than older adults (Donaldson et al., 2019). The prevalence
of mental disorders are higher in Europe with the highest mental health problems reported in countries in
Southern and Eastern Europe (Knapp & Wong, 2020). According to the Eurostat report, the highest
prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is observed in Sweden (6.5%), followed by Finland (5.5%), Denmark
(5.3%), and Germany (5.2%). In contrast, the lowest prevalence is observed in Cyprus (1.4%), Greece
(1.6%), and Portugal (1.8%). When looking at countries in Eastern Europe, the highest prevalence of
Alzheimer's disease is observed in Slovenia (3.1%), followed by Poland (2.8%), and the lowest is observed
in Bulgaria (1.2%), Romania (1.4%), and Slovakia (1.6%) (Eurostat, 2018). The prevalence of these
conditions varies across Western and Eastern European countries, with higher rates of depression observed
in some countries in Eastern European and higher prevalence of Alzheimer's disease observed in some
Western European countries.
The report findings reveals that the burden of mental health problems on the economy is substantial.
Therefore, mental disorders account for a significant proportion of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in
Europe, estimated to cost the European economy billions annually.
The economic burden of mental disorders is expected to increase in the coming years as the European
population ages and the prevalence of mental health problems continues to rise. Despite the high prevalence
of mental health problems in Europe, the report indicates that availability of mental health services is
challenging in most European countries (Hummel et al., 2020). Stigma and discrimination against
individuals with mental health is a significant barriers in seeking adequate care (Gomez et al., 2023).
Furthermore, the Eurostat report provides a comprehensive overview of the levels of mental health
problems in Europe, highlighting the significant burden of mental disorders on the population and the
economy. The report underscores the need for increased investment in mental health services and the
elimination of discrimination and stigma against people with mental health problems.
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2. Reflection on UK mental health trends (300 words)

The UK has witnessed an increasing trend in mental health cases in the last ten years, with anxiety
and depression being the most prevalent mental disorders affecting this population. According to
the Eurostat report on Mental Health and Related Issues Statistics published on 12 July 2018, the
UK has one of Europe's highest mental health challenges (Gomez et al., 2020). The report reveals
that in the UK, mental health issues are prevalent in women and young people. However, the
prevalence of mental health problems also varies by region, with higher rates of mental disorders
reported in urban areas than in rural areas.
According to the Mental Health Foundation, 1 in 6 people in UK experience a common mental
health problem such as anxiety or depression almost weekly. In 2019, the Office for National
Statistics reported that suicide rates in the UK had increased slightly from the previous year, with
5,691 suicides registered in England and Wales in 2019. As for Alzheimer’s disease, the
Alzheimer's Society estimates that an estimated 850,000 people live with dementia in the UK, with
around two-thirds of them having Alzheimer's disease specifically. The prevalence of dementia
increases with age, with around 1 in every 14 people above the age of 65 having dementia, and
around 1 in every 6 people above the age of 80 having dementia. It is important to note, these
statistics are not necessarily reflective of the situation in 2018, as data on mental health and
Alzheimer's disease can fluctuate from year to year (Eurostat, 2018).
There were shocking revelations from the report revealing that UK has a higher rate of
antidepressant usage than other European countries. This suggests that there is overreliance on
medication as a treatment for mental health problems in the UK, and highlights the need for more
comprehensive approaches to mental health care. The report also highlighted a high level of stigma
associated with mental health problems in the UK (Cosma et al., 2020). The report revealed that
stigma and discrimination are significant barriers to seeking and receiving adequate mental health
care and that there is a need for increased public education and awareness to mitigate this
challenge.
Consequently, the report suggests that mental health problems in the UK is a significant issue
requiring urgent attention. While there are some improvements in mental health services in recent
years, there is need for improving access to care and reducing stigma and discrimination.
Therefore, the Eurostat report provides a sobering insight into mental health problems in the UK.
The report highlights the need for more investment in mental health services and the development
of more comprehensive approaches to mental health care. Through addressing these issues, the
well-being and quality of life of those affected by mental health problems in the UK can be
improved.
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3. Reflection on using PH E Fingertips to access mental health trends data (300

words)
PHE Fingertips is an online platform providing access to various health data sets in England. The
dataset available on Fingertips is the Mental Health dataset, comprising information on mental
health prevalence, service use, and outcomes. The data in this dataset is collected from various
sources, including NHS Digital, Public Health England, and the Department of Health and Social
Care (Browne et al., 2022). In utilising the Mental Health dataset, an individual needs to
understand its meaning and interpretations. This requires professional knowledge on various
regulations used in describing mental health prevalence and outcomes, such as rates, percentages,
and standardised ratios. In addition, it is important to understand the population groups represented
in the data, such as age, gender, ethnicity, and geography.
Consequently, understanding the Mental Health dataset and Fingertips provides a user-friendly
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interface for accessing and visualising the data. The platform enables users to generate tables,
charts and maps to explore the data and compare trends over time and across different regions.
This is beneficial in identifying trends and gaps in mental health service provision and outcomes
and informing policy and practice decisions (Brodeur et al., 2021). Therefore, using PHE
Fingertips to access mental health trends data is a valuable tool for understanding and monitoring
mental health outcomes in England. However, there is need for training on knowledge and skills in
data interpretation and visualization. Through effective training and support, Fingertips can be a
powerful resource for improving mental health services and outcomes.
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Topic 4: Positive Psychology and Strengths Based Approaches

Reflection on Peter's Case Study (300 words)
Applying the perspective of a traditional medical model approach, the significant information in Peter's
case would be his medical history, for example his recent diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes and high blood
pressure. The doctor should identify his symptoms, medications, and other relevant health issues. They
would also inquire on his lifestyle habits, such as his diet, exercise routine, sleep patterns and his family
history of medical conditions. With regards to this information, the doctor might conclude that Peter's
health challenges are significantly caused by his sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress
(Dalton-Locke et al., 2021). The doctors might recommend medication to control his blood pressure and
diabetes and a referral to a dietitian to enable him create a healthier eating plan. Moreover, they can
advise Peter to incorporate regular exercise into his routine in managing his stress levels.
Working from the perspective of a deficit model, the focus would be identifying Peter's weaknesses and
problems rather than his strengths and resources. The deficit model focuses on Peter's lack of exercise,
poor diet, and high-stress levels as deficiencies to be addressed (Dechent et al., 2023). His inability to
socialize after of work and feelings of pointlessness are signs of depression or other mental health issues.
Based on this deficit model, the recommendations for Peter is to seek counseling or therapy in addressing
his mental health concerns.
The focus is to encourage him change his habits and behaviors thus improving his physical health by
creating a more balanced work-life schedule and engaging in regular exercise and healthier eating habits.
While the traditional medical and deficit models provides valuable insights and recommendations for
addressing Peter's health concerns, there is need to consider his values, goals, and motivations (Cosma et
al., 2020). A more holistic approach, such as the positive psychology approach, is needed to help Peter
find a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and well-being in his life.
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Reflection on Positive Psychology Tools (300 words)

From the perspective of positive psychology and an abundance model, the focus is to identify Peter's
strengths and resources rather than his weaknesses and problems. This approach acknowledges that Peter
is capable of creating positive change in his life, even in the face of his current challenges. Instead of
focusing on Peter's medical history, an abundance model would seek to understand his values, interests,
and relationships (Donaldson et al., 2019). This includes exploring his experiences with carpentry and
custom furniture design and how he might incorporate these passions into his current work as a project
manager. It involves identifying his support network, including his daughters and others caring about
him. Based on this information, it is concluded that Peter is experiencing deficit of purpose in his life thus
contributing to his health challenges and dissatisfaction. The recommendations helps to identify his
strengths, interests, and values and then utilise them as foundation for developing positive change in his
life (Hendrickx et al., 2019). For example, Peter should be encouraged to set goals aligning with his
values and interests, such as incorporating more creative elements into his work or inventing a hobby
related to carpentry or furniture design. He should be encouraged to cultivate relationships with his
daughters and other people supporting him, as social connection is a key component of well-being.
The abundance model encourages Peter to practice gratitude, mindfulness, and other positive psychology
tools enabling him shift his mindset toward positivity and abundance. This involves regularly reflecting
on his blessings, focusing on the present moment, and engaging in activities bringing him joy and
satisfaction (Kurki et al., 2021). An abundance model empowers Peter to create positive change in his life
based on his strengths and resources rather than just trying to address his health problems from a medical
perspective. This approach enables him find a greater purpose and meaning, ultimately improving
physical and mental health outcomes.
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Reflection on Character Strengths Survey results (300 words)

Reflecting on the character strengths survey results, I found it essential to focus on the top strengths and
how they manifest in daily life. I identified my top strengths and analysed how I utilised them daily. In
assessing myself, my top strengths include creativity, curiosity, kindness, perspective, and I love learning
(Pate et al., 2023). From time to time, I adopt creativity to solve problems and come up with innovative
ideas. Sometimes I satisfy my curiosity through exploring new topics or learning new skills. This enables
me to develop new perspective to identify issues from different angles and establish informed decisions. I
also express kindness through assisting or offering support to individuals (Ronaldson et al., 2020).
However, I have noticed that at times I am held up and neglect using some of my strengths, especially my
creativity and I do not benefit from it as expected. Therefore, lack of exercising these strengths dulls me
with time.
Realising that I do not utilise my top strengths regularly, even at the university, I have resolved to
incorporate them into my daily routine. For example, I create opportunities to use my strengths in current
tasks or seek out tasks enabling me to utilise my strengths. I also connect to my supervisors or professors
based on my strengths and how I contribute to the team or classroom (McIntyre et al., 2019). Therefore,
reflecting on the character strengths survey results, I noticed it is significant to focus on the top strengths
and how I can incorporate them into my daily life routine.
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Topic 6: Resilience, Hope and Recovery

Reflection on Amira's Case Study (300 words)
Amira's trauma and displacement experiences significantly impacts on her resilience. The challenges Amira is
facing can be understood through resilience theories and concepts. Resilience is defined as to an individual's
ability to adapt and cope with adversity, and a range of factors such as personal characteristics, family
dynamics, and environmental factors. She re-lives her past events, this are symptoms of post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD), including, nightmares, and anxiety (Soltani et al., 2020). Her concentration and academic
performance are affected, hence becoming more withdrawn and less engaged in activities she once enjoyed.
These behaviours are identified as adaptive responses to her experiences, as she is trying to protect herself from
further harm and cope with the stress and uncertainty of her situation. To support Amira's emotional resilience,
it is essential to take a holistic approach involving her school, parents, and community (Watson et al., 2019).
Schools should play crucial roles in building resilience among children and young people by providing a safe
and supportive environment. This fosters positive relationships with peers and teachers, and promoting a sense
of belonging and inclusion.
The PHE article highlights the significance of a whole-school approach involving training teachers and staff on
trauma-informed practices, social and emotional learning programs, and partnerships with community
organisations to provide additional support (Watson & Soltani, 2019). Amira’s parents play vital roles in
building her resilience by providing emotional support, encouraging her to engage in activities she enjoys, and
seeking professional help if necessary. Her parents should understand that Amira's behaviors are not a sign of
weakness or lack of effort but a response to her experiences. Developing resilience in children and young
people requires a collaborative effort involving schools, parents, and community organisations. Amira's
traumatic experiences have significantly impacted her resilience, but with the right support and interventions,
she can overcome these challenges and thrive in her new environment.
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Reflection on Resilience Tools (300 words)

Several resilience-building interventions supports Amira in improving her mental health and well-being. The
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an approach enabling Amira to identify and challenge negative
thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes related to her traumatic experience (Sudeck et al., 2021). This approach assists
her reframe her perspective and focus on positive coping strategies to improve her resilience. CBT enables
Amira to develop problem-solving and coping skills, beneficial for managing stress and anxiety. The
mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is another resilience building intervention supporting Amira’s
well-being. Therefore, MBSR assists Amira learn to focus her attention on the present moment and develop
awareness of her thoughts and feelings. This approach helps her develop a more accepting and compassionate
attitude toward herself, improving her self-esteem and self-worth. MBSR enables her regulate her emotions and
manage stress, useful for reducing the symptoms of anxiety and PTSD.
Consequently, the social support is an essential resilience-building intervention benefiting Amira, not forgetting
family support vital for balance at home, especially at night. Social support enables Amira feel less isolated and
more connected to others. This can be achieved through involving her in group activities or clubs aligning with
her interests or hobbies. Moreover, Amira could benefit from peer support groups by interacting with other
young people who have experienced similar traumatic experiences (Yıldırım & Arslan, 2020). This approach
enables her develop a sense of belonging and improve her self-confidence, beneficial to her overall well-being.
These resilience-building interventions improves Amira’s mental health and well-being. Through implementing
these approaches, Amira can develop coping skills to manage her trauma-related symptoms, build resilience,
and restore hope for her future.
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Reflection on Resilience Survey results (300 words)

After taking the iResilience individual report and reflecting on the resilience survey results, I discovered areas
where I excel in resilience and where I struggle. I'm conscious that resilience is not a fixed trait but a skill
developed and strengthened over time. To develop personal resilience, I have focused on the six essential
questions:
i. What is most important to me?
ii. What do I want to achieve?
iii. What are my strengths and weaknesses?
iv. What are my values and beliefs?
v. What are my sources of support?
vi. What obstacles may I face, and how can I overcome them?
I have used these questions to develop clear goals and priorities, identify areas where I need to improve and
build a support system to help me overcome challenges. I have identified specific weakness in my resilience,
such as difficulty in managing stress, and develop a goal to practice mindfulness or exercise regularly to
improve my coping skills (Yıldırım & Arslan, 2020). Furthermore, it is important to take note of surprises in
the resilience survey results since individual might think they were strong in a particular area, such as
adaptability, but the results reveal otherwise. This can be an opportunity for growth and development, as
individuals focus on building skills and strategies to improve their adaptability.
To maintain my resilience, l continuously reflect on my goals, strengths, and sources of support. I also practice
self-care and stress management techniques, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in
activities bringing joy and fulfillment (Satinsky et al., 2019). Building personal resilience takes time and effort,
but it is a skill beneficial to individuals in all areas of life. Through focusing on the six essential questions and
using the resilience survey results as a guide, individuals should identify areas for growth and develop plan to
maintain their resilience over time.
 Topic 7: Cultural Diversity and Managing Risk
Reflection on Shubhan’s Case Study (300 words)
The Cultural Formulation Interview Framework is important in Shubha’s case. This framework integrates a 13
culturally sensitive approach for assessing and treating individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. The first
step is to understand the individual's cultural identity, including their beliefs, values, and practices. This involves
booking appointments and involving her husband who acts as an interpreter. This will enhance deeper
understanding of Shubha’s case. It is important to understand her cultural beliefs on mental health and well-
being and roles of women in the family and community (Watson et al., 2019). The impact that immigration and
acculturation can negatively impact Shubha’s mental health.
Consequently, understanding the cultural explanation of BAME’s women symptoms is vital in this scenario.
This entails understanding cultural beliefs on the causes of mental health problems and any cultural idioms of
distress present in Shubha’s case. For example, in Shubha's case, her beliefs on her worthlessness and her desire
to die may be influenced by cultural beliefs on the importance of fulfilling her family's and community's
expectations (MacLellan et al., 2022). The other step is understanding the cultural factors affecting the
individual's access to care and willingness to engage in treatment. This involves understanding the cultural
barriers to accessing care, such as language barriers, stigma, and cultural beliefs about mental health treatment.
Shubha's reluctance to seek help might be influenced by cultural beliefs about mental health and the shame
associated with seeking help.
The final step is to develop a culturally sensitive treatment plan considering the individual's cultural beliefs and
practices. This involves incorporating cultural practices into the treatment plan, such as involving family
members in the treatment process or utilising traditional healers in addition to western medical treatment
(Raleigh et al., 2010). It is significant to take a person-centered and strength-based approach to involve Shubha
in the risk formulation process considering her cultural beliefs and practices. The essential factor to consider
when conducting a risk formulation with Shubha is her support network. This includes family members, friends,
and community members who can support and assist. Therefore, it is important to consider cultural beliefs about
mental health and help-seeking impacting Shubha's willingness to seek help during a crisis.
References

Reflection on perinatal mental health services for BAME women (300 words)
The Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) women faces challenges in accessing perinatal mental health care
in the UK. Gopal et al. (2019) conducted a systematic review of qualitative studies exploring the experiences of
BAME women using maternity services in the UK. They found that BAME women experienced a range of
barriers to accessing appropriate care, including language barrier and cultural differences, racism and
discrimination, lack of trust in healthcare professionals, and poor communication.
Healthcare providers should develop a culturally sensitive approach to care and work to build trust with BAME
women to improve their experiences and outcomes. Dib et al. (2020) found that BAME women had poorer
maternity services experiences in England than their white counterparts. They identified language barriers,
cultural differences, and racism as key factors contributing to these disparities (Gopal et al., 2019). It is
recommended that healthcare providers take a more inclusive approach to care by providing language support
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Topic 8: Mental Health Literacy and Mindfulness

Reflection on Joe’s Case Study

Joe’s case study highlights the problems faced by individuals with paranoid schizophrenia,
including delusions and hallucinations, requiring long-term medication and support from healthcare
professionals. The community mental health nurse recommends mindfulness exercises to help Joe
cope with his symptoms and prepare for his return to university. Mindfulness activities involve
maintaining attention to the present moment with a non-judgmental and accepting attitude
(Maconick et al., 2021). Research studies have demonstrated that mindfulness-based interventions
are effective in reducing symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety, and improving overall well-
being.
The context of mental health activities, reveals that mindfulness activities enables individuals with
psychosis to be aware of their thoughts and feelings, reduce intensity of their symptoms, and
improve their quality of life. For example, mindfulness exercises helps individuals with paranoid
thoughts to recognise they are just thoughts and not necessarily true. Furthermore, mindfulness
activities enables Joe to develop a greater sense of control over his symptoms and improve his
ability to manage stress, thus reducing the risk of relapse (Soltani et al., 2021). Practicing
mindfulness influences individuals with psychosis to increase their social connections and engage
in meaningful activities, such as returning to university.
Moreover, the evidence base for using mindfulness activities in supporting mental health is
growing, and evidence suggests that these interventions are particularly useful for individuals with
psychosis. The community mental health nurse's recommendation for mindfulness exercises is a
positive step toward helping Joe manage his symptoms and improve his quality of life (Sudeck et
al., 2021). However, it is critical to note that mindfulness exercises should be part of a broader
treatment plan, including medication and ongoing support from healthcare professionals.

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Reflection on Mindfulness Tools (300 words)

Kurki et al. (2021) discusses the use of mindfulness-based interventions for individuals
experiencing psychosis and manage their attention to the present and develop focus. The authors
note that although mindfulness has been illustrated to be effective in treating various mental health
conditions, there is need for more research into its use specifically for psychosis. This provides a
brief overview of the evidence base for mindfulness-based interventions for psychosis, highlighting
several interventions plans revealing promising results. Mindfulness is helpful for individuals
experiencing psychosis since it enables them develop more awareness and acceptance of their
thoughts and feelings, minimising distress and improving overall well-being.
The importance of tailoring mindfulness interventions to the specific needs and experiences of
individuals with psychosis is vital. However, this might be challenging given the unique and
complex nature of psychotic symptoms. The mindfulness intervention is not a replacement for other
treatments for psychosis but rather a complementary approach used alongside other interventions.
Therefore, a thoughtful and balanced discussion of the potential benefits and challenges of using
mindfulness for psychosis need to be developed (Hummel et al., 2020). This highlights the need for
further research in this area while acknowledging the potential for mindfulness to be a valuable tool
in treating psychosis.
References
S
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Reflection on Cultural Competency E-learning module Mindfulness (300 words)

This is a practice involving bringing an individual’s attention to the present moment without
judgment. The E-Learning module on mindfulness offered by NHS Health Education England
provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing mindfulness in daily life. The
mindfulness profile slide show PDF provides an overview of the various components of
mindfulness and how they can be applied to promote healthy minds (Kurki et al., 2021). In
applying e-learning during a placement to practice, there is need to develop mindfulness E-
Learning module and profile slide show PDF. Healthcare professionals can use these resources to
develop their own mindfulness practice.
The learning of various components of mindfulness and their implementation develops personal
practices enabling individuals to cope with stress and improve their overall well-being. This is vital
for healthcare professionals in utilising resources to help their patients develop mindfulness
practices (Soltani et al., 2019). Through sharing knowledge health professionals have gained from
the E-Learning module and profile slide show PDF, they can assist their patients to develop
mindfulness practices enabling them cope with a plethora of mental health conditions, including
depression, stress, and anxiety. The healthcare professionals can utilise these resources in
supporting the development of a culture of mindfulness within their workplace.
Through sharing the resources with their colleagues, they encourage individuals to develop
mindfulness practices and promote an overall culture of mindfulness within the workplace.
Therefore, the mindfulness E-Learning module and profile slide show PDF can be applied in
various ways during a placement to practice (Watson et al., 2019). Healthcare professionals should
use these resources to develop their mindfulness practices, helping their patients develop
mindfulness practices, and promote a culture of mindfulness within their workplace. This supports
healthy minds and promote overall well-being.
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Analysis of my Personal Development Through Several Self-assessments, Surveys, and

Questionnaire Based Activities
The completion of these tasks enabled me gain deeper understanding of mental health

trends, positive psychology, resilience, cultural diversity, perinatal mental health services, and

mindfulness. I learnt to access mental health trends data through PHE Fingertips, enabling me

to recognise the importance of being updated with the latest trends and developments in the

field (Gomez et al., 2023). This influenced me to develop informed and evidence-based

approach to practice. Reflecting on positive psychology and strength-based approaches, I

understood the benefits of focusing on an individual's strengths rather than solely on their

deficits. I learnt this approach leads to greater engagement, motivation, and, better outcomes for

service users (Glasby & Tew, 2015). Reflecting on the character strength survey, I identified

my top strengths, curiosity, and love of learning, gratitude, kindness, and creativity. These

strengths enabled me understand my values and how I can use them to support my professional

development effectively.

Reflecting on Amira's case study and the resilience enabled me understand the

importance of resilience-building interventions in supporting service users' mental health and

well-being. The three resilience-building interventions used in Amira's case study, goal setting,

problem-solving, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, influenced me to recognise the value of

developing a holistic approach to mental health, considering the service user's personal

circumstances and individual needs (Clough & Strycharczyk, 2012).The reflection on Shubha's

case study in Cultural Diversity and Managing Risk, using the Cultural Formation Interview

Framework and Risk Formulation using Person-Centered and applied Strength-based approach,

taught me the importance of taking a culturally sensitive approach to practice. This enabled me

to recognise the importance of understanding the service user's cultural background and how it

influence their mental health and well-being.

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Through the reflection on Perinatal Mental Health Services for BAME women and

Racial Disparities in the Mental Health Literature and Review pdf, I understood the challenges

BAME women face in accessing perinatal mental health services. This enabled me develop

greater awareness of the importance of cultural sensitivity in practice and ensure inclusivity and

access to perinatal healthcare for all women (Satinsky et al., 2019). Through reflecting on

Mental Health Literacy and Mindfulness, considering Joe's Case Study and the Mindfulness E-

Learning module and Mindfulness Profile Slideshow pdf, I am capable of recognising the value

of mindfulness practices in supporting service users' mental health and well-being. This enabled

me develop a more holistic approach to practice and to recognise the importance of self-care

and self-reflection.

These tasks enlightened my understanding on mental health, positive psychology,

resilience, cultural diversity, perinatal mental health services, and mindfulness. They influenced

me develop more informed and evidence-based approach to practice and to be cognizant of the

significance of taking a holistic approach that considers the individual's circumstances and

needs (Bailey, 2012). Moving forward, I will continuously develop my knowledge and skills in

these areas, seeking out further learning opportunities and reflecting on my practice to identify

areas for improvement.

Analysis of My Own Professional Development as a Practitioner through the Exploration

of a Series of Case studies Using theoretical Approaches to Support Service User’s Mental
Health and Well-being

Throughout completing a series of tasks and case studies, I have gained a deeper

understanding of the theoretical approaches used to support service users' mental health and

well-being. This too enabled me reflect on my professional development as a practitioner,

identifying areas for improvement and continue to grow. These are significant areas I

developed skills and knowledge in using positive psychology and strength-based approaches

(Bailey, 2012). Through exploring Peter's case study, I learnt how to apply these approaches to

support individuals in recognising and building on their strengths rather than focusing solely on

their weaknesses and deficits. This influenced me to adopt a more holistic approach to
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supporting service users and has helped me to build more positive and collaborative

relationships with them.

Similarly, through exploring Amira's case study, I gained a deeper understanding of

resilience-building interventions and how they support service users in developing coping

strategies and managing stress. This enabled me to better support service users in developing

their resilience and develop a more proactive approach in supporting their mental health and

well-being (Cromby et al., 2013). Furthermore, I developed my skills and knowledge in

managing cultural diversity and risks. Through exploring Shubha's case study, I learnt using

cultural formation interview frameworks and person-centered approaches to support service

users from diverse cultural backgrounds. This influenced me be aware of my biases and

assumptions and better understand the needs and experiences of service users from different

cultural backgrounds.

The understanding of mental health literacy and mindfulness and support service users

in managing their mental health and well-being has been critical for developing basic

intervention plans. Through exploring Joe's case study, I learnt to use mindfulness activities to

support service users in managing their symptoms and improving quality of life. Through

completing these tasks and case studies, I gained a deeper understanding of the theoretical

approaches to support service users' mental health and well-being. This enabled me to be an

effective practitioner, working collaboratively with service users and supporting them in

developing their resilience and coping strategies (Dib et al., 2020). However, I recognised there

is still much to learn and the ongoing professional development is essential for staying up-to-

date with the latest research and approaches

Conclusions

My Conclusions on Section One Learning and Development

Based on my analysis of my personal learning and development needs, I have identified

several areas I need to focus in supporting me during my work placement. I must develop my

understanding and knowledge of different theoretical approaches to mental health and well-

being. This enables me to support users’ service effectively and tailor my interventions to
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clients’ specific needs. Moreover, I need to develop my communication and interpersonal

skills. This is vital in specifically in developing rapport and therapeutic relationships with

service users thus enabling me establish trust and respect with service users, critical in

promoting their mental health and well-being.

I need to develop my understanding and awareness of cultural diversity, concerning

mental health and well-being. This compels me provide culturally sensitive and appropriate

support to service users from diverse cultural backgrounds and effectively work within

multicultural teams. Moreover, I need to improve my skills and knowledge in the area of

resilience to help service users build their resilience and establish coping strategies deal with

life's challenges. Therefore, I need to develop my self-care strategies and practices to maintain

my mental health and well-being while working on a challenging and emotionally demanding

roles. This involves developing mindfulness practices, establishing healthy boundaries, and

seeking support from colleagues and supervisors as required. Through developing focus on

these areas of personal learning and development, I will be effectively equipped to support

service users and thrive as a mental health practitioner during my work placement.

My Professional Conclusions on Section One Learning and Development

Through reflecting on my personal and professional development needs, I have

identified several areas for improving my skills and knowledge as a mental health practitioner. I

need to continue developing my knowledge and understanding of theoretical mental health and

well-being approaches. The case studies highlighted the importance of using various theoretical

models to support service users. I need to be familiar with various approaches and how they can

be applied. Furthermore, my focus should be on developing my skills in building resilience in

service users.

The Amira’s case study highlighted the importance of resilience-building interventions

in supporting individuals to cope with adversity and develop positive coping strategies.

Therefore, I need to continue learning and practicing evidence-based resilience-building

interventions to support service users. I should improve my cultural competence and sensitivity.

The case study of Shubha highlighted the importance of understanding cultural diversity and its
 21

impact on mental health. I need to develop my skills in cultural formation and risk formulation

in ensuring my capability of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, I

need to improve my understanding and knowledge of perinatal mental health services for

BAME women and racial disparities in the mental health literature.

The case studies and articles highlighted the importance of improving inclusivity and

access to perinatal healthcare for BAME women. Therefore, I need be familiar with relevant

policies, procedures, and best practices among this group. Through completing the tasks and

case studies, I have identified several areas for my skills and knowledge development as a

mental health practitioner. I am better equipped to support service users and provide high-

quality care by focusing on these areas. I plan to continue my professional development by

attending training courses, workshops, and conferences, engaging in reflective practice, and

seeking feedback from colleagues and service users.

Identifying Personal Future Learning and Development Needs Supporting me when

Developing my Work Placement

Completing the tasks and reflecting on the materials provided are useful starting point

for personal and professional development. Through exploring mental health trends, positive

psychology, resilience, cultural diversity, and mindfulness, I effectively understand mental

health cases and develop my skills and knowledge to better support service users. Self-

assessments and surveys, such as the character strength survey and resilience survey, provides

me with insights into my strengths and areas for development. I can leverage my strengths in

my professional roles to support service users' mental health and well-being by identifying my

weaknesses.

The exploration of the theoretical approaches and case studies provides me with

practical examples on how to apply different approaches to support service users. Based on the

materials provided, I will benefit from future learning and development opportunities focused

on improving their knowledge of cultural competence and addressing health inequalities for

BAME women. Mindfulness training is significant in supporting my well-being and develop

skills to support service users in my practice. The materials provided offer a broad range of
 22

personal and professional development topics, and I should consider their unique goals and

needs. Through reflecting on the materials and completing self-assessments, I will identify my

strengths and areas for development, thus improving my ability to support service users' mental

health and well-being.

Identifying Professional Future Learning and Development Needs Supporting me in My

Work Placement

Based on the tasks and materials provided, individuals benefits from several

professional future learning and development needs while undertaking their placement cultural

competence. Materials on cultural diversity and managing risk highlights the importance of

understanding cultural backgrounds and perspectives when working with service users.

Professional development opportunities focusing on cultural competence, such as workshops or

e-learning modules, enables individuals develop their knowledge and skills in this area, trauma-

informed care where several of the case studies discussed the impact of trauma on service users'

mental health. Professional development opportunities focusing on trauma-informed care helps

individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to work with individuals experiencing

trauma, person-centered and strength-based approaches. The case studies highlighted the

benefits of using person-centered and strength-based approaches to support service users'

mental health and well-being.

Professional development opportunities focusing on these approaches helps individuals

develop the skills and knowledge needed to apply them effectively in their practice of mental

health literacy. The professional development opportunities focusing on mental health literacy,

such as workshops or e-learning modules, enables individuals develop their knowledge and

skills in this area. The inclusive and equitable care of the materials on perinatal mental health

services for BAME women and racial disparities in the mental health literature highlights the

need for inclusive and equitable care for all service users. Professional development

opportunities addressing health inequalities promotes inclusive and equitable care, such as

workshops or e-learning modules, helps individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to

work effectively with diverse service users.

 23

Therefore, undertaking a placement presents a valuable opportunity for individuals to

develop their professional skills and knowledge. Through identifying future learning and

development needs aligning with their goals and needs, individuals can effectively enhance

their ability to support service users' mental health and well-being. Opportunities focusing on

cultural competence, trauma-informed care, person-centered and strength-based approaches,

mental health literacy, and inclusive and equitable care are valuable for individuals undertaking

a placement in mental health services.

 24

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