A nurse is assisting a client who is working on the technique of systematic desensitization. Which statement made by the nurse best uses the principle of technique?

The client attributes life's problems to being without family support: Lack of family support can significantly impact an individual's mental health and well-being. It can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a lack of emotional support, potentially contributing to the development or exacerbation of mental illness.

The client is unable to find work and does not have enough money for housing: Financial instability, unemployment, and inadequate housing are social determinants of mental health. These factors can contribute to stress, anxiety, and a sense of hopelessness, which may impact the client's mental well-being.

The client states that they are discriminated against due to their country of origin: Experiencing discrimination based on one's country of origin can lead to feelings of marginalization, social exclusion, and psychological distress. Discrimination is a social factor that can contribute to the development of mental illness or exacerbate existing mental health conditions.

The client reports not belonging anywhere and is without family support: Feeling a lack of belonging or a sense of disconnectedness can have a negative impact on mental health. It can contribute to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and depression. Additionally, lacking family support further compounds the client's sense of not belonging, potentially affecting their mental well-being.

Incorrect:

The client reports being unable to find anything meaningful within their life: While this statement suggests a lack of purpose or fulfillment in the client's life, it does not specifically address social or cultural factors that could contribute to their mental illness. It may be important to explore further during the assessment to identify underlying issues, but it does not fall under the social/cultural category.

Systematic desensitization is a therapeutic technique used to help individuals gradually overcome their fears or phobias by exposing them to the feared stimulus in a controlled and systematic way. The goal is to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation through a step-by-step process.

The statement "What is the worst that will happen if you confront this fear?" aligns with the principle of systematic desensitization because it encourages the client to explore and challenge their negative beliefs or catastrophic thinking associated with their fear. By questioning the potential negative outcomes, the nurse is helping the client to reevaluate their fear response

and consider more realistic expectations. This process can contribute to the client's ability to confront their fear gradually and reduce anxiety over time.

The other statements are still helpful and supportive, but they do not specifically address the principles of systematic desensitization:

“I can see you are anxious. Let's stop for a minute." acknowledges the client's anxiety but does not actively engage in the technique of systematic desensitization.

"Use the deep breathing techniques we practiced yesterday." focuses on relaxation techniques, which can be helpful in managing anxiety but does not specifically address the principles of systematic desensitization.

“Tell me how you are feeling right now." encourages the client to express their feelings but does not directly engage in the technique of systematic desensitization.