How individual identity and self esteem are linked to emotional and spiritual wellbeing

Identity

Our identity refers to our view of ourselves, who we are and what makes us who we are. People gain a sense of identity from feeling valued, wanted and part of wider group and community in which they live or a community with which they identify.

Aspects of Wellbeing that help to make up our identity   (Answers question 5.6a)

A persons wellbeing may include their sense of hope, confidence and self esteem their ability to communicate their wants and needs, to make contact with others, to show warmth and affection, and to experience and show pleasure or enjoyment. It is the term used to describe feeling comfortable in ones life. It can relate to:

Spiritual – finding meaning and purpose in life (this could be through religious faith)

Emotional – how we feel about ourselves

Cultural – our sense of belonging

Religious – our faith and beliefs

Social – our relationships

Political – peace and stability in our homeland

Sexual – our intimacies

Physical – leading an active life

Mental – realising our potential and ability to contribute to society

All these aspects of wellbeing make up who we are, or our identity. Everyone has different feelings, attitudes and goals. Each one of these aspects influences your self esteem and feelings of self-worth.

How your Attitude and Behaviour Promotes Emotional and Spiritual Wellbeing   (Answers question 5.6b)

In order to promote the individual’s wellbeing they need to be happy with as many aspects of their life as possible. If the individual thinks something might help them to feel better; be positive, understanding, empathetic and non judgemental. Listen to what they consider important in their lives and try enabling them to make the changes they want, for example, to be able to practice their faith.

Social Care Staff should help to support individuals to look after themselves, have regular health checks and stay in good health.

Looking after Eyes

Adults with learning disabilities are ten times more likely to have sight difficulties than other people and may not be able to say if they are having problems with their eyes and vision.

Regular eye tests (every two years) with an optometrist are the best way to check how someone can see and that their eyes are healthy. Eye tests are important as eyes don’t usually hurt when something is wrong. An individual doesn’t need to be able to talk or read to have an eye test. Eye tests pick up early signs of eye conditions before someone is aware of the symptoms, conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure are first diagnosed by eye tests.

Looking after Teeth

People with learning disabilities are more likely to have tooth decay, loose teeth, gum disease and other problems with their teeth and mouth..

Some people with learning disabilities may need assistance with both brushing and flossing teeth. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and flossing at least once a day, helps to keep teeth and gums healthy.

The person you support may need reasonable adjustments to help them access dental services

Looking after Ears

People with learning disabilities are more likely to need a hearing aid, but many have never had a hearing test. Some people may not be aware they have problems hearing or they might not be able to explain what difficulties with hearing they have. Support workers need to look for signs of hearing difficulties.

Some people with hearing loss may need a hearing aid. Hearing problems can be particularly difficult for people who already have poor communication skills so it is important to get treatment. Some causes of hearing loss can be treated with medication or minor surgery. It Is quite common for people with learning disabilities to have problems with earwax and this can cause hearing loss. Encourage the person you support to seek advice from a GP or pharmacist if they have a build up of earwax that is causing hearing loss.

There is lots of easy read information available to help support your client to look after their eyes, ears and teeth.

Use to answer question 5.6a and 5.6b of the Care Certificate