ALT A Deeper Dive into.. The "Bio-Pyscho-Spiritual" Approach

ALT Introduction This concept was developed by Wilhelm Jordaan, Jackie Jordaan (1990, 1998), and expanded by Gideon J.C. Kirsten (1994, 2001, 2004) (1) The holistic eco-systemic model (seen last post) involves 5 sets of contexts: biological, psychological, spiritual, ecological, and metaphysical (1) These concepts are distinguishable, but inseparable A change to any one of these parts effects all of them, and treatment can begin anywhere in this cycle This concept is alternatively called the "biopsychosocial-spiritual" approach, and encapsulates the same areas

ALT Why Include Spiritual? Belief systems (individual, familial) can impact healthcare and treatment outcomes There is a link between spirituality and physical and behavioral wellbeing and health Spirituality additionally positively contributes to coping with chronic, severe, and terminal conditions Some studies found that "33 and 94 % of patients want their spiritual concerns addressed by healthcare team members" It is essential to consider all aspects of a persons context when developing their healthcare / treatment plan

ALT Application Biological: consider medical diagnoses, lab work, objective outcomes Psychological: psychotherapy when needed, meditation, CBT if trained, discussing feelings and perceptions of illness Social: assessment of social and financial resources, need for/suggestion of aid programs, housing assistance, benefit groups, family meetings Spiritual: assess past religious and spiritual affiliations, identify resources, mindfulness/meditation Include all elements in treatment planning process