PDH term 4

Mental Wellbeing Continuum

A dynamic model showing mental health as a fluid spectrum from flourishing to severe distress/crisis, rather than a binary state.

Biopsychosocial Model

A framework showing how Biological (genetics/hormones), Psychological (thoughts/coping), and Social (family/peers/media) factors interact to influence health.

Emotion

Short-lived, high intensity, clear cause (e.g., anger at an event).

Mood

Sustained, low intensity, general/unclear cause (e.g., feeling "flat").

The Amygdala's Role

The brain region that detects potential threats and triggers the stress response (the brain's alarm system).

Prefrontal Cortex in Stress

Responsible for rational thinking and decision-making; its functioning decreases during acute hyperarousal.

Cortisol

Sustained stress response released via adrenal glands.

Adrenaline

Fast stress response (heart rate, breathing).

Yerkes-Dodson Law (Anxiety Curve)

Shows that performance increases with arousal up to an optimal point, after which excessive anxiety degrades performance.

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Excessive, unmanageable worry across multiple areas for at least 6 months, causing significant impairment.

SSRIs

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: Medications that block serotonin reuptake, improving mood and emotional regulation.

Cognitive Reframing (CBT)

The practice of identifying distorted, negative thoughts and actively reframing them into rational, balanced thoughts.

Four Dimensions of Body Image

Perceptual: How you see your body.

Affective: How you feel about it.

Cognitive: What you think about it.

Behavioral: Actions taken based on it.

Costs of Body Dissatisfaction

Time: Grooming/editing photos.

Money: Cosmetics/supplements.

Opportunity: Missing events/sports due to appearance fears.

Red Flags of Eating Disorders

Thoughts: Food/calorie obsession.

Feelings: Guilt/anxiety at meals.

Routines: Skipping meals, rigid food rituals, social withdrawal.

Formal vs. Informal Support

Informal: Parents, friends, coaches.

Formal: GPs, Psychologists, Headspace, Kids Helpline.