2. Be universally aspirational when describing goal-setting
Goal setting can be sensitive for some patients when framed around a topic that may relate to another condition. For example, many patients diagnosed with ADHD or depression often feel distressed when topics of unmet goals and targets arise.
As such, goal-setting language should be universal and considerate of co-existing illnesses.
For consideration
People come from various backgrounds and may have multiple mental health considerations.
Cautionary example
Goal-setting example: āI want to lose weight because I want to feel confident in a bathing suit next summer.ā
Examples of personal insecurities like body image and weight loss can trigger negative emotions in patients.
Suggested approach
Avoid mentioning the issue if itās something related to a different mental illness that is not dealt with in this care plan.
Suggested approach
Consider universal goals like having better focus at work or in someone's personal life; reading more books, sleeping better, being more mindful, etc., are considerate suggestions for multiple mental health conditions.
Putting it into action
1ļøā£ Self-reflection: Is this related to another condition?
2ļøā£ Ask for help if you're not sure.
3ļøā£ Provide helpful universal goals that apply to their personal lives
4ļøā£ Focus on issues related to mental illnesses mentioned in the care plan
Examples to avoid
When we're not explicitly speaking to these issues, be careful to avoid examples related to:
- Body image
- Substance abuse
When directly addressing these issues, let's be cautious of how we approach them by considering aspirational examples and not guaranteeing outcomes.
I.e., Focus on health benefits (fuel and brain power) vs physical outcomes (losing weight).