STATE OF MIND
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38)
Trump International Hotel & Tower offers treatments that help improve mental
outlook, such as aromatherapy, yoga and Thai massage.
ISPA Medical Director Dr. Brent Bauer, however, stresses that
having knowledge about mental health should not be misconstrued that spa professionals should diagnose or treat mental
disorders, such as depression. “I think it is good for us to give
some guidance about what to look for and how to direct the
individual to proper mental health professionals. Once that
person is safely working with a mental health team, then we can
look at things like massage as adjuncts to that medical therapy,”
he says.
Dr. Peeke agrees: “It is important for spa professionals to know
their scope of practice. Only a credentialed and licensed
psychotherapist or counselor can provide approved therapy to a
client who has been found to display significant depressive
behavior. Keep in mind that, whenever there is any doubt about
anyone’s mental health, always seek professional help and
guidance in dealing with that individual.”
TELL-TALE SIGNS
While social withdrawal is one of the warning signs of extreme
anxiety and depression, tell-tale signs of mental issue may also
include a drop in personal and/or professional functioning, difficulty in concentrating and solving problems, a sense of
disconnectedness, extreme nervousness that impact sleep,
apathy or loss of interest in others, dramatic mood swings,
changes in appetite, dependence on drugs, decline in self-care,
increased sensitivity to stimulants like sights and sounds, illogical
behavior and suicidal thoughts or intent to harm others.
“Spa professionals need to pay attention to each guest’s mood
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PULSE
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May 2016
“It is important for spa
professionals to know their
scope of practice. Only a
credentialed and licensed
psychotherapist or
counselor can provide
approved therapy to a
client who has been
found to display significant
depressive behavior.”
and state of mind. Issues related to mental health problems can
begin early in life. One half of all mental illnesses begin by age 14
and 75 percent begins by age 24,” says Dr. Peeke.
As for Weinraub, she says it’s important to be present in the
moment to see the emotions that are occurring and be courageous enough to speak up and offer support to guests, or even
peers, suffering from early signs of anxiety and depression.
“Listen—be willing to ask questions that allow a dialogue to
help people look inward. Advocate—be sure to suggest that a
professional expert might be useful and/or necessary,” she
advises.
OFFERING SUPPORT
Dr. Peeke says, when listening to someone with anxiety or
depression, it’s important to listen without judgment and allow
the person to set the pace of the conversation. “Avoid clichéd
comments—do not say things like ‘It’ll all be fine,’ ‘Hey, lighten
up,’ ‘Oh heck, you’re not depressed!’ These comments are not
helpful and tend to diminish the person’s experience with
depression. Instead, say ‘What can I do to help you?’ or ‘Is
there anything I can do to help you?’ If someone admits to
being depressed, be aware that they may also be feeling shame.
You can share with them that depression is a medical
condition, not a failing or a flaw. And, that treatment is very
helpful and accessible.”
In addition, it is also a good idea to invite spa guests or peers
suffering from anxiety to participate in something joyful, such as
a lunch, walk, hike, or any activity that could benefit that person.