Describes how personality types, core beliefs, and behavioral habits affect chronic illness. Discusses the most common chronic illnesses and the key factors in prevention and management. Explains how stress, anxiety, and depression influence chronic illnesses. Describes practical behavioral habits for coping with disabling chronic conditions like pain, cancer, arthritis, and other diseases. Lists ways to help patients develop healthier habits in terms of nutrition, activity, preventive medical and dental care, and emotional well-being. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes. Describes, for this course, the implications for dentistry, mental health, and other health professions.

Explains the principles of diagnosis and differential diagnosis of Adjustment Disorder, the controversy that surrounds its classification, and its proper place in the hierarchy of psychiatric disorders. Identifies helpful strategies for patients with Adjustment Disorder. Outlines the issues of diagnosis and management of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Describes Shared Psychotic Disorder and its diagnosis and treatment. Describes ways to cope with stress and recommends appropriate coping strategies to patients.

Lists and describe the six basic emotions that have unique facial expressions. Explains the difference between emotions and moods. Discusses the relationship between emotions, moods, and pain. Identifies brain structures and neurochemicals that play a role in both moods and pain. Discusses the relationship of pain to both acute stress and chronic stress. Lists the similarities between stress management and pain management. Identifies the similar brain areas involved in both physical and emotional pain. Explains the interactions between anxiety disorders, depression, and pain. Discusses cognitive behavioral therapy and its role in pain management.