C/PS/27. Health Psychology

A case study of a 56 year old divorcee Ms Suzanne Skelvington who lives alone in Maida Vale is considered here and her professional and social problems are highlighted to show how these factors tend to affect her physical well being. Ms Skelvington has reported as suffering from chest pain and shortness of breath which could be diagnosed as cardiac related symptoms and she also has irregular exercise habits, unhealthy social lifestyle, excessive drinking and high fat eating patterns. All these issues have been considered as she refers to a health psychologist for medical advice, psychological counselling and a diet and exercise schedule. This discussion is focused on unravelling the issues in health psychology as relevant for this particular case study and all psychological, social and behavioural dimensions are considered.