Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

Which type of crisis involves mental health instability?

1. Developmental

2. Environmental

3. Psychiatric

4. Existential

The correct answer is: Psychiatric

The type of crisis that involves mental health instability is psychiatric crises. These crises are characterized by a significant disruption in an individual's mental health functioning. Examples of psychiatric crises include acute episodes of mental disorders such as schizophrenia, severe depression, or anxiety disorders, which can lead to behaviors that may put the individual or others at risk. Psychiatric crises often manifest as a sudden change in mood, an increase in anxiety or agitation, or psychotic symptoms like hallucinations or delusions. In these situations, individuals may require immediate intervention from mental health professionals to stabilize their condition and ensure safety. In contrast, developmental crises typically arise during significant life transitions, such as adolescence or retirement, and may or may not involve mental health instability. Environmental crises are related to external factors such as natural disasters that disrupt daily functioning. Existential crises revolve around questions of purpose and identity but may not necessarily involve acute mental health instability.