SOCIETY AND MENTAL HEALTH BETWEEN CURE AND PREVENTION. HOW TO PUT THE LESSON OF ALFRED ADLER INTO PRACTICE?

Abstract

There is growing evidence that social, ecological and cultural factors - the so-called determinants of health- have a fundamental impact on mental health.
Among these, reference is made in particular to the effect of inequalities and climate change. The unsustainability of the current socio-economic system, based on unlimited economic growth, will worsen this situation, in a context in which the future from promise becomes more and more a threat. The Adlerian theoretical framework is very valuable for understanding these social phenomena and implementing the appropriate therapeutic and preventive strategies. Adler, in fact, since the beginning of his career, has dealt with the impact of the effect of social phenomena on mental health. He highlighted how a hostile external environment can produce increased feelings of inferiority in the individual, a deficit in the development of social interest and an unharmonious development of the personality. With respect to this, Adler believes it is essential not only to cure, but, first of all, to prevent mental disorders. He conceptualized a psychologist committed to cure the world in order to make it a healthier place rather than to readapt human beings to live in a sick world