Addressing Ambivalence for Treatment and Recovery

More U.S. adolescents and young adults in the late 2010’s (vs. the mid-2000’s) experienced major depression, psychological distress, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, and suicide completion.  These trends do not exist for adults 26-year-old and over, suggesting a generational upsurge in mood and anxiety disorders and suicide-related behaviors.  High rates of substance use in this demographic add to the acuity of the difficulty these individuals face.  This mental health crisis has implications for all aspects of an individual’s functioning, including in the workplace.  Often times, it is co-workers, bosses, and EAP counselors who are on the front lines for identifying and intervening to encourage people to get the care that they need.  This talk will address trends in mental health among young adults, consider factors that contribute to these trends, and present ways of addressing common ambivalence for seeking and receiving adequate mental health treatment resources.  

The target audience for this continuing education program is mental health providers and clinicians working with individuals with mental health diagnoses. Materials are appropriate for learners with an introductory level of understanding about mental health concerns.  

Educational Objectives:  

Following this presentation, participants will be able to… 

• Identify trends in mental health among young adults and discuss factors that contribute to these trends   
• Describe challenges faced by providers in their efforts to enhance treatment motivation in patients  
• Utilize a range of strategies for addressing ambivalence, enhancing motivation and building hope for treatment and recovery