Unit One Discussion

The Biopsychosocial Model of Health and Wellness

The biopsychosocial paradigm offers a comprehensive perspective that helps us

comprehend both physical and mental health. Developed in the 1970s by Drs. George Engel and
John Romano, this paradigm acknowledges that three crucial factors interact to shape our well-
being:
1. Biological Factors:
o These include our ancestry, our state of health, and the way our organ systems
operate.
o Our brain, as an organ, can become unwell just like any other part of our body.
o Physical health conditions can significantly impact mental health. For instance,
chronic pain may lead to symptoms of depression.
o There is a connection between genetic predispositions and mental and physical
wellness. Genetics play a role in both physical and mental health conditions.
o In essence, our biology sets the foundation for our overall health.
2. Psychological Factors:
o Our mental and physical health are greatly influenced by our ideas, feelings, and
habits.
o There is a close relationship between mental and general health. Stress levels, our
immune systems, and even our vulnerability to physical ailments are all impacted by
psychological well-being.
o This group includes stress management, personality traits, and lifestyle decisions.
for example, worry and stress can impair our immune systems, leaving us more
susceptible to illnesses. Therefore, preserving our psychological well-being depends
on our ability to grasp it.
3. Social Factors:
o Our social environment, cultural context, and support systems play pivotal roles.
o Social determinants of health—such as socioeconomic status, family relationships,
and cultural beliefs—shape our well-being.
o Social support buffers against stress and contributes to resilience.
o Conversely, social isolation or adverse life events can impact our health.
o Recognizing these social dynamics helps tailor effective treatments and
interventions

Applying the Biopsychosocial Model

When considering an individual’s health, we must examine these three components:
 Physiological Factors (Biological):
o Genetics, physical health, and organ functioning.
o Brain health and its impact on mental well-being.
o Genetic predispositions to both physical and mental conditions.
 Thoughts, Emotions, and Behavior (Psychological):
o Lifestyle choices (e.g., diet, exercise, sleep).
o Stress management and coping strategies.
o Emotional well-being and its effects on physical health.
  Socioeconomic Components, Social Support, and Culture (Social):
o Socioeconomic status and access to resources.
o Family relationships and social support networks.
o Cultural beliefs and practices related to health.

Word Count 388

Reference

Ogden, J. (2019). The psychology of health and illness: An open-access course [PDF].
Semantic Scholar.