 Mental Conditions
In the context of Cartesian Solutions, Inc.™ health services and service
support activities, mental health disorders and chemical dependence will together
be included under the single term, mental conditions.
- Mental Health disorders--impairment caused by altered emotions, thinking,
and/or behavior in the absence of mind-altering substances
- Chemical Dependence--impairment caused by altered emotions, thinking,
and/or behavior in relation to drugs or medications known to affect mental
function
Not included among mental conditions but pertinent to health are "health
behaviors." These include activities performed by an individual that
either promote or inhibit health, such as exercise, eating habits, wearing
seat belts, problem drinking, smoking, and the like. While these fall under
the "psychological" rubric since they are behaviors, they are
not considered illnesses but rather life style choices. They are often the
focus of intervention by wellness and prevention programs, which are encouraged
during the Cartesian Solutions, Inc.™ consultations but are not the
focus of attention.
(Some argue that patients with chemical dependence should not be treated
because they represent conditions created by the patients themselves. If one
took this argument to its logical conclusion, then the health system should
also refuse treatment for obese patients with diabetes or heart disease, for
smokers with chronic obstructive lung disease or lung cancer, and for promiscuous
individuals with sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. There is no
logical rationale for doing so since it would be associated with substantial
suffering and ultimately higher health care costs as patients seek treatment
for more extensive and life threatening diseases resulting from substance-related
physical and mental health complications, which are paid through plan benefits.)
Cartesian Solutions, Inc.™
3004 Foxpoint Rd. - Burnsville, MN 55337
Phone: 952-426-1626 - Fax: 952-426-1200
E-mail: integration@cartesiansolutions.com
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