Almost every type of disease or
injury has a mental aspect, even if this only relates to discomfort
or pain that it causes. However,
in some diseases and with some temperaments the mental factor
is more pronounced. In such cases, psychotherapy is particularly
important.
Various methods of treatment can
be employed which depends on the patient-practitioner relationship,
which are of prime importance.
SUGGESTION is the commonly employed
method, sometimes a therapeutic suggestion may be made to the
patient in the hypnotic state.
ANALYSIS consists of the elucidation
of the half-conscious or subconscious repressed memories or instincts
which may be responsible for mental disorders or personal conflicts.
Other methods of treatment which
can be employed are, group therapy, education and employment,
behavioural and cognitive therapy.
Psychotherapy can also be supportive,
which aims to stabilise and strengthen the psychological defence
mechanisms of those patients who are confronted by a crisis which
threatens to overwhelm their ability to cope or who are struggling
with the aftermath of major life events.
|
