Which of the following best describes the phases of the mental health continuum in relation to stress?

• A. They are unrelated to levels of stress experienced by an individual.
• B. They range from optimal mental health, through mild distress, to severe mental illness.
• C. They progress directly from mental illness to complete recovery without intermediate stages.
• D. They are limited to only two categories: healthy and unhealthy.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the mental health continuum is a model that represents the range of mental health states an individual can experience, especially in relation to stress.
2. Recognize that this continuum is not binary (healthy vs. unhealthy) but includes multiple phases that reflect varying levels of mental well-being and distress.
3. Identify the phases on the continuum, which typically start from optimal mental health, move through mild distress or challenges, and can progress to severe mental illness if stress is unmanaged.
4. Note that the continuum allows for movement back and forth between phases, indicating that mental health is dynamic and influenced by stress levels and coping mechanisms.
5. Conclude that the best description of the phases of the mental health continuum in relation to stress is that they range from optimal mental health, through mild distress, to severe mental illness.