Psychological prevention
Psychological prevention refers to proactive interventions aimed at reducing the incidence, prevalence, and recurrence of mental health disorders and psychological distress. These interventions are designed to enhance individual well-being, promote adaptive behaviors, and mitigate risk factors associated with mental health issues. The effectiveness of such preventive measures has been demonstrated across various populations and settings.
Preventive strategies in psychology encompass a range of activities, including educational programs, community initiatives, and policy development, all aimed at fostering environments that support mental health and prevent the onset of psychological disorders. The science of prevention emphasizes understanding risk and protective factors, developing evidence-based interventions, and implementing these strategies at individual, community, and systemic levels.
By focusing on prevention, psychologists aim to reduce the burden of mental health disorders on individuals and society, improve quality of life, and promote overall psychological well-being.
Evidence-based psychological prevention strategies:
-Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)-based interventions.
-Mindfulness training for stress and anxiety reduction.
-Social-emotional learning programs in schools to promote resilience.
American Psychological Association. (2014). Guidelines for Prevention in Psychology. American Psychologist. Retrieved from: https://shorturl.at/i4r0v.
Giles, J. C., Västhagen, M., Leuven, V., L., Edenius, A., Ghaderi, A., Enebrink, P. (2024, April 16). The efficacy of psychological prevention, and health promotion interventions targeting psychological health, wellbeing or resilience among forced migrant
Prevention in mental health: importance of psychological care. Mentes Abiertas Psicología, (2023, January 19). Retrieved from: https://shorturl.at/yxi1i.