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Mental Health – Taking it back to the Basics of learning.
Many adults are experiencing much more mental health challenges that linger from childhood experiences and from not being able to self-regulate to manage symptoms. Mental disorders are prevalent within the population of the United States. The prevalence of mental illness among adults in the United States is predicted to exceed 20%, with approximately 57.8 million individuals affected in the year 2021 (National Institute of Mental Health, 2023). Mental disorders encompass a diverse array of ailments that exhibit varying levels of severity, spanning from mild to moderate to severe (National Institute of Mental Health, 2023).
The literature on social learning theory explains that all individuals are social beings who have culturally experienced a style of learning within their family dynamic that has influenced all aspects of behaviors, including communication styles, and learning styles (Chavis, 2012). According to research from McLeod, (2016), the work of understanding learned behaviors by Albert Bandura states that children are surrounded by many influential models, such as parents, family friends, teachers, and others in the family dynamic they observe and imitate (pg. 1.). Social learning theory indicates that behaviors learned from their own cultural and social environment experiences shape human behavior whether it is appropriate or not (Chavis, 2012).
With this share, as you are walking the journey of mental health, for those who struggle with self-regulation, awareness of personal needs, emptiness and much more, remind yourself that you are teaching yourself these basic needs that will help you manage distress, moods, etc., as you continue to expose yourself through mental health services, coaching, and other mentors. Understanding the basics helps us be kinder to ourselves, no judgement, and show compassion to what we did not or realize.
Best,
Dr. Teresa Serrano, LMFT
Resources
Chavis, A. M. (2012). Social Learning Theory and Behavioral Therapy: Considering Human Behaviors within the Social and Cultural Context of Individuals and Families. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 22(1), 54-64. doi:10.1080/10911359.2011.598828
McLeod, S. A. (2016). Bandura—Social Learning Theory. http://www.simplypsychology.org/bandura.html
National Institute of Mental Health. (2023, March). Mental illness. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness