Wait .. What "Awareness Month" Is It?!

 Wait .. What "Awareness Month" Is It?!

Written by Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Therapy Practice Solutions Virtual Assistant

March - when you think of March, you likely don’t picture a mental awareness theme. However, March has several different “awareness” titles! For example, March is Self Harm Awareness Month, which focuses on awareness surrounding Non-Suicidal Self Injury (NSSI). March is also National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month which exists to inform folx about the inequality those with developmental disabilities still face. Finally, the first week in March is Sleep Awareness Week as designated by the National Sleep Foundation. PHEW!

With all the “awareness” themes in March, it may be difficult to consider - how are you supporting clients who engage in self-harm behavior? What about your clients with developmental disabilities? And we all sleep - how are you addressing it in a therapy session?

The good news is - the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions have tips for all of these and more! Read on to discover ways to support your clients as mental health clinicians in the month of March.

Considerations for Self-Harm

When working with clients who self-harm, mental health clinicians should keep in mind the importance of developing a non-judgmental, compassionate, and trusting therapeutic relationship. It is crucial to understand the underlying reasons for the behavior and to work collaboratively with clients to develop effective coping strategies. 

Clinicians should also be aware of potential ethical and legal considerations, such as the duty to report if a client is at imminent risk of harm. Additionally, it is essential to recognize that self-harm can be a symptom of a broader mental health issue and to address any underlying conditions with evidence-based treatments. By providing comprehensive support and guidance, mental health clinicians can help clients overcome self-harm behaviors and achieve long-term wellness.

Some treatment modalities you may want to consider for self-harm include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT)

Considerations for Development Disabilities

When working with clients with developmental disabilities, mental health clinicians should keep in mind the importance of individualized care and a person-centered approach. It is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the client's unique needs and abilities, as well as any environmental and social factors that may impact their mental health. Clinicians should also be aware of potential communication barriers and adjust their communication style accordingly, using simple language and visual aids if necessary. 

Additionally, it is important to recognize the potential for co-occurring mental health conditions and to incorporate appropriate interventions. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, mental health clinicians can help clients with developmental disabilities achieve optimal mental health and wellbeing.

Some modalities that have been effective when used with folx with developmental disabilities include behavioral therapy, social skills training, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Considerations for Sleep

As a therapist, there are several ways you can address sleep problems in the therapy room. First, you can explore the client's sleep habits and patterns and identify any factors that may be contributing to their sleep difficulties. This may include discussing their sleep hygiene practices, such as their sleep environment, bedtime routine, and use of electronics before bedtime.

You can also teach relaxation and mindfulness techniques to help clients manage stress and anxiety that may be interfering with their sleep. Additionally, you can help clients identify and challenge any negative thoughts or beliefs about sleep, such as worries about not being able to fall asleep or concerns about the consequences of poor sleep.

Finally, you can collaborate with the client's primary care provider to ensure that any underlying medical or psychiatric conditions that may be contributing to their sleep problems are properly diagnosed and treated. By addressing sleep problems in therapy, you can help clients achieve better quality sleep and improve their overall mental health and wellbeing.

We hope this blog post helped you learn a little more about considerations when working with self-harm, developmental disabilities, and sleep concerns - which are all highlighted in March! If you want more support in running your private practice, the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions are here to help. Reach out today to be paired with someone who can take your administrative tasks, marketing, social media creation, and more off your hands! We look forward to hearing from you.