The biopsychosocial model of health can be broken down into three components, biological, psychological, and social.
The biological aspect refers to physical factors, genetics, and health status which we can evidently see is impacted through paramedic work. We see the relation between lack of sleep and physical changes such as weight gain or poor nutrition which further increases the risk of disease, whilst also linking in with the psychological component.
The psychological aspect of the model refers to an individual’s behaviours, personality, motivations, and cognition which is impacted through the exposure of traumatic events involved with paramedicine. Consequences to this exposure include increased risk of mental health issues such as PTSD or depression which can be linked with the social component.
The social aspect refers to the
environment, family, friends, community, and workplace. Absenteeism and
isolation from loved ones are a common cause and result of mental health
issues, thus it is clear social support plays a major role in all aspects of
the biopsychosocial model of health. Social support and surrounding yourselves
with people who love and support you builds a good foundation to improve all
aspects of the model.
