This document discusses stigma related to mental illness. It begins by asking the reader questions about their own experiences with stigma and discrimination. It then discusses how stigma affects those with mental health problems, including negatively impacting patients. The presentation goes on to define stigma and explain theories for why it occurs, including stereotyping, media portrayal, and the process of labelling. It provides statistics on how common stigma is and its effects, such as creating barriers to accessing healthcare. Next, it shares stories from two individuals discussing their experiences with mental illness and the stigma they faced. It concludes by asking how stigma can be reduced through doctors, individuals, and society listening without judgment and viewing patients as experts in their own conditions.
Social anxiety is a fear or nervousness about social situations where one is concerned about being judged by others. It can develop in childhood or adolescence and sometimes runs in families. Symptoms include sweating, increased heart rate, and feeling sick when around others.
The document provides tips to overcome social anxiety, including testing yourself in real social situations to determine your stress level, identifying social factors you avoid, challenging irrational anxious thoughts, and practicing facing fears in real world situations. It also advises changing one's perspective when dealing with difficult people rather than focusing on what is wrong with oneself.
Crisis counseling ii chapter 11 - adolescent in crisisGlen Christie
This document discusses adolescent development, identity formation, body image, and common issues teenagers face such as depression, substance abuse, eating disorders, and self-harm. It notes that around ages 11-12, adolescents develop advanced abstract thinking abilities and experience a "Copernican revolution" in how they view themselves. Identity is formed through differentiation and integration of concepts, or through substitution of one identity for another. Body image, self-esteem, and comparing oneself to peers can impact mental health and relationships. The document outlines risk factors, signs, and types of depression, substance abuse disorders, eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, and self-harm behaviors in teenagers.
The document summarizes psychological disorders and their treatment according to the biopsychosocial model. It discusses the criteria for abnormality (deviance, distress, dysfunction) and approaches that view disorders as arising from interactions among biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. It also outlines classification systems (DSM, ICD); behavioral therapies like systematic desensitization and exposure therapy; cognitive behavioral therapy for OCD; and factors considered in evaluating diagnostic systems.
What is Social Anxiety and Social Phobia?Ola Owolabi
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by intense fear and anxiety in social situations that causes distress and impairment. It is one of the most common psychiatric disorders, affecting 12% of people at some point in their lives. Common triggers of social anxiety include public speaking, meeting new people, dating, and interactions that involve possible scrutiny from others. Physical symptoms of social anxiety include palpitations, sweating, fast breathing, and nausea. While it often begins in childhood due to experiences like abuse, social anxiety can be treated through psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and exposure to feared social situations.
This document discusses various topics related to death, grief, mental illness, and mental disorders. It describes the five stages of grief following a loss (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance). It also differentiates between low-grief and high-grief deaths based on whether the death was anticipated. The document outlines some common mental disorders like mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. It lists some early signs and symptoms of mental illness as well as preventive measures that can be taken.
The document discusses stigma associated with mental illness. It notes that stigma involves negative stereotypes and attitudes that label people with mental illness as less worthy. These attitudes are perpetuated by misrepresentations in media and a lack of understanding. The document outlines various factors that contribute to stigma, including fear, economic issues, lack of treatment facilities, and cultural beliefs. It also discusses the negative impacts of self-stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion that people with mental illness often face. Interventions like social contact and education are mentioned as ways to potentially help address stigma.
Reducing Stigma for the Stigmatized and Stigma SupportersNakiba Jones
This document discusses stigma, how it affects those with mental illnesses and other conditions, and ways to reduce stigma. Stigma is defined as a mark of disgrace associated with a circumstance or person. Stigma is important because those with mental illnesses often experience it multiple times during their illness. Stigma affects those with conditions like mental illness, HIV, AIDS and others. It can be supported through stereotyping, alienating, or negatively labeling people. Self-stigma occurs when people feel ashamed or embarrassed of their diagnosis. Ways to prevent stigma include educating yourself and others, sharing stories to inform and inspire, and standing up against stereotyping.
Social anxiety is a fear or nervousness about social situations where one is concerned about being judged by others. It can develop in childhood or adolescence and sometimes runs in families. Symptoms include sweating, increased heart rate, and feeling sick when around others.
The document provides tips to overcome social anxiety, including testing yourself in real social situations to determine your stress level, identifying social factors you avoid, challenging irrational anxious thoughts, and practicing facing fears in real world situations. It also advises changing one's perspective when dealing with difficult people rather than focusing on what is wrong with oneself.
Crisis counseling ii chapter 11 - adolescent in crisisGlen Christie
This document discusses adolescent development, identity formation, body image, and common issues teenagers face such as depression, substance abuse, eating disorders, and self-harm. It notes that around ages 11-12, adolescents develop advanced abstract thinking abilities and experience a "Copernican revolution" in how they view themselves. Identity is formed through differentiation and integration of concepts, or through substitution of one identity for another. Body image, self-esteem, and comparing oneself to peers can impact mental health and relationships. The document outlines risk factors, signs, and types of depression, substance abuse disorders, eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, and self-harm behaviors in teenagers.
The document summarizes psychological disorders and their treatment according to the biopsychosocial model. It discusses the criteria for abnormality (deviance, distress, dysfunction) and approaches that view disorders as arising from interactions among biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. It also outlines classification systems (DSM, ICD); behavioral therapies like systematic desensitization and exposure therapy; cognitive behavioral therapy for OCD; and factors considered in evaluating diagnostic systems.
What is Social Anxiety and Social Phobia?Ola Owolabi
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by intense fear and anxiety in social situations that causes distress and impairment. It is one of the most common psychiatric disorders, affecting 12% of people at some point in their lives. Common triggers of social anxiety include public speaking, meeting new people, dating, and interactions that involve possible scrutiny from others. Physical symptoms of social anxiety include palpitations, sweating, fast breathing, and nausea. While it often begins in childhood due to experiences like abuse, social anxiety can be treated through psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and exposure to feared social situations.
This document discusses various topics related to death, grief, mental illness, and mental disorders. It describes the five stages of grief following a loss (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance). It also differentiates between low-grief and high-grief deaths based on whether the death was anticipated. The document outlines some common mental disorders like mood disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. It lists some early signs and symptoms of mental illness as well as preventive measures that can be taken.
The document discusses stigma associated with mental illness. It notes that stigma involves negative stereotypes and attitudes that label people with mental illness as less worthy. These attitudes are perpetuated by misrepresentations in media and a lack of understanding. The document outlines various factors that contribute to stigma, including fear, economic issues, lack of treatment facilities, and cultural beliefs. It also discusses the negative impacts of self-stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion that people with mental illness often face. Interventions like social contact and education are mentioned as ways to potentially help address stigma.
Reducing Stigma for the Stigmatized and Stigma SupportersNakiba Jones
This document discusses stigma, how it affects those with mental illnesses and other conditions, and ways to reduce stigma. Stigma is defined as a mark of disgrace associated with a circumstance or person. Stigma is important because those with mental illnesses often experience it multiple times during their illness. Stigma affects those with conditions like mental illness, HIV, AIDS and others. It can be supported through stereotyping, alienating, or negatively labeling people. Self-stigma occurs when people feel ashamed or embarrassed of their diagnosis. Ways to prevent stigma include educating yourself and others, sharing stories to inform and inspire, and standing up against stereotyping.
Hard-hitting presentation about what is mental health with statistics that will open your eyes that this issue might be closer to home thank you think!
By Alison Roberts
Joanna Simone gave a presentation on mental illness. She discussed what mental illness is, common types like depression and anxiety, and shared her personal experience living with dysthymia, anxiety, OCD, and an eating disorder. She described a typical day struggling with mental illness. Joanna emphasized dos and don'ts for supporting someone with a mental illness, such as listening without judgment. She provided campus and local resources for mental health support.
This document discusses teen depression, dispelling myths and providing facts. It begins with an introduction by the school counselor and prompts students to think about what depression looks like. The agenda includes defining depression, discussing diagnostic criteria like duration and intensity of symptoms, potential causes like genetics and life stressors, a wide range of signs and symptoms, preventative strategies like healthy lifestyle habits, ways to help a depressed friend through compassionate listening, treatment options including therapy and medication, and resources for further information. The presentation encourages feedback and questions.
Patrick Corrigan : Erasing the Stigma of Mental IllnessBeitissie1
This document provides a summary of a slide presentation given by Patrick Corrigan on erasing the stigma of mental illness. The key points discussed in the presentation include: examining unintended consequences of anti-stigma efforts; contact-based approaches have been shown to improve attitudes but not necessarily behaviors; and combining social-cognitive and health services research approaches may be most effective by targeting stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination at multiple levels.
Current issues in Guidance and Counseling in the PhilippinesRey Tagum
The document discusses current and emerging issues related to guidance and counseling in the Philippines. It covers topics like stress, depression, suicide, bullying, substance abuse, and other challenges facing Filipino children, youth, adults and families. It provides information on recognizing symptoms of stress and depression and gives tips for preventing and coping with depression through social support, self-care, exercise, diet, challenging negative thoughts and knowing when to seek professional help.
Suicide Prevention and Addiction - January 2014Dawn Farm
“Suicide Prevention and Addiction” was presented on Tuesday January 28, 2014; by Raymond Dalton, MA; Dawn Farm Outpatient Services Coordinator. There is an alarmingly high prevalence of suicide among people with addiction and people in early recovery. This program will raise awareness of the signs of suicidal thinking and describe ways to offer support and obtain help for people who may be contemplating suicide. Viewers will learn how to recognize suicidal thinking, reach out and offer support to others contemplating suicide, obtain help when suicidal thoughts are present, and access local and national suicide prevention and intervention resources. This program is part of the Dawn Farm Education Series, a FREE, annual workshop series developed to provide accurate, helpful, hopeful, practical, current information about chemical dependency, recovery, family and related issues. The Education Series is organized by Dawn Farm, a non-profit community of programs providing a continuum of chemical dependency services. For information, please see http://www.dawnfarm.org/programs/education-series.
This document discusses several aspects of aging, death, and bereavement. It addresses the physical, cognitive, and psychological changes that occur with aging. It also examines the psychological aspects of aging and how older adults experience difficulties adjusting to new situations. The document defines death and dying, and explores attitudes toward death across different age groups. It also discusses psychogenic death and the legal aspects of death. Finally, it outlines the five stages of impending death and the needs of dying patients.
This document summarizes information about death, dying, and grief. It discusses the definitions of death and a good versus bad death. It outlines the clinical criteria for determining brain death in adults and children. It describes the stages of death and dying as well as the stages of grief. It discusses the duration of grief, phenomenology of grief, and complicated forms of bereavement including chronic, hypertrophic, and delayed grief. It covers biological perspectives on grief and compares bereavement to major depressive disorder. It provides an overview of grief therapy. In concluding, it states that being aware of one's dying imbues humans with values and a desire to make the most of their time.
PowerPoint of Mental Wellness Screening and Education Day - Depression & Anxi...Denise Kan, MSW, LMSW, RSW
This document discusses depression and anxiety disorders. It begins by outlining common myths about each condition and providing definitions. It then describes the different types of depression and anxiety disorders, common symptoms, potential causes, treatment options including medication and psychotherapy, and self-help strategies. The document aims to educate about depression and anxiety disorders and help reduce stigma.
This document provides an overview of bereavement in elderly individuals. It discusses definitions of grief, mourning, and bereavement. It describes the phenomenology and phases of grief as well as types of grief such as anticipatory grief, anniversary reactions, chronic grief, and traumatic bereavement. It examines how age impacts the grief process in older adults and some complications that can arise from bereavement including medical illnesses, psychiatric issues, and persistent complex bereavement disorder. The document also discusses neurobiological factors involved in the grief response.
The document discusses the key physical, psychological, and social changes that occur during adolescence. It describes the hormonal changes of puberty and their effects on physical development, mood, and sexual desires. It also addresses common problems adolescents face, like anxiety over physical changes, idealizing celebrities, experimenting sexually, and conflicts with parents over independence.
Personality refers to characteristics that make individuals unique, including how they think, feel, and behave. A personality disorder is a lasting pattern of inner experiences and behaviors that deviate from cultural norms and cause distress. There are three clusters of personality disorders - odd/eccentric, dramatic/emotional, and anxious/fearful. The document provides details on specific disorders within each cluster such as paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. It describes symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches for several disorders.
Depression is a condition that affects many people and can lead to serious consequences like self-harm and suicide if left untreated. Depression causes changes in mood, thinking, and behavior. It can be caused by genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Left untreated, depression may result in addiction, self-harming behaviors like cutting, and increased risk of suicide. However, with treatment like therapy and medication, most people see significant improvement in their symptoms. Resources like To Write Love on Her Arms provide help and hope to those struggling with depression and related issues.
We explore these two terms, why there is tension between these two groups in the Black Community and addressing actually raising true Black consciousness to progression.
Personality disorders are enduring patterns of behavior that deviate from cultural norms and cause impairment. The document discusses six specific personality disorders - borderline, antisocial, schizoid, histrionic, dissociative identity disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder - and provides their key signs and symptoms. Examples of people who exhibited traits of each disorder are also mentioned. The potential causes of personality disorders discussed are genetics, environmental factors, and brain abnormalities.
Borderline Personality Disorder is a Personality Disorder
BPD is one of several personality disorders recognized by the American Psychiatric Association.
Personality disorders are psychological conditions that begin in adolescence or early adulthood, continue over many years, and cause a great deal of distress.
Personality disorders can also often interfere with a person's ability to enjoy life or achieve fulfillment in relationships, work, or school.
Teen depression has different symptoms than adult depression. Teens may feel irritable and angry rather than sad, and experience physical pains like headaches. Left untreated, teen depression can lead to problems like failing grades at school, reckless behavior, drug addiction, and even suicide. It is important for parents to seek help from a medical professional if their teen exhibits signs of depression like withdrawal, changes in eating or sleeping, and feelings of worthlessness. Talking to a depressed teen and encouraging them to express their emotions can also provide relief while they undergo counseling and therapy treatment.
This document discusses different types of personality disorders. It defines personality as patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors that make individuals unique. Personality disorders involve atypical beliefs and attitudes compared to most people. The document then describes several specific personality disorders including paranoid, schizoid, borderline, antisocial, narcissistic, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders. It provides examples of common thoughts and behaviors associated with each. The conclusion states that personality disorders can be challenging to treat but therapies like CBT aim to help patients change thoughts and behaviors to develop relationships and satisfaction in life.
This document provides an overview and summary of an online training about depression awareness and suicide prevention. The training takes approximately 40 minutes and teaches how to recognize signs of distress in students and how to respond by connecting them with help. It covers topics like understanding depression, warning signs, risk factors for suicide, how to have conversations about suicide, and making referrals to counseling. The overall goal is to train faculty and staff to act as gatekeepers who can help get students in crisis connected to mental health resources.
American Family - Chapter 9, Understanding Mental Illnessbartlettfcs
This document provides an overview of mental and emotional problems, including definitions of mental disorders, types of mental disorders (organic vs. functional), and specific disorders such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, conduct disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. It discusses suicide risk factors and warning signs, the grieving process and its stages, and ways to support those who are grieving.
Mental health refers to psychological well-being and the ability to think, feel, and act in a positive manner. A healthy mind is capable of experiencing a full range of emotions, deals with reality as it is, accepts oneself and others, and is open to new ideas. Mental illness or disorders affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves and can be caused by biological, psychological, social and environmental factors. Common signs of mental illness include changes in self-care, mood, sleep, and social interactions. Examples of mental disorders discussed include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.
Hard-hitting presentation about what is mental health with statistics that will open your eyes that this issue might be closer to home thank you think!
By Alison Roberts
Joanna Simone gave a presentation on mental illness. She discussed what mental illness is, common types like depression and anxiety, and shared her personal experience living with dysthymia, anxiety, OCD, and an eating disorder. She described a typical day struggling with mental illness. Joanna emphasized dos and don'ts for supporting someone with a mental illness, such as listening without judgment. She provided campus and local resources for mental health support.
This document discusses teen depression, dispelling myths and providing facts. It begins with an introduction by the school counselor and prompts students to think about what depression looks like. The agenda includes defining depression, discussing diagnostic criteria like duration and intensity of symptoms, potential causes like genetics and life stressors, a wide range of signs and symptoms, preventative strategies like healthy lifestyle habits, ways to help a depressed friend through compassionate listening, treatment options including therapy and medication, and resources for further information. The presentation encourages feedback and questions.
Patrick Corrigan : Erasing the Stigma of Mental IllnessBeitissie1
This document provides a summary of a slide presentation given by Patrick Corrigan on erasing the stigma of mental illness. The key points discussed in the presentation include: examining unintended consequences of anti-stigma efforts; contact-based approaches have been shown to improve attitudes but not necessarily behaviors; and combining social-cognitive and health services research approaches may be most effective by targeting stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination at multiple levels.
Current issues in Guidance and Counseling in the PhilippinesRey Tagum
The document discusses current and emerging issues related to guidance and counseling in the Philippines. It covers topics like stress, depression, suicide, bullying, substance abuse, and other challenges facing Filipino children, youth, adults and families. It provides information on recognizing symptoms of stress and depression and gives tips for preventing and coping with depression through social support, self-care, exercise, diet, challenging negative thoughts and knowing when to seek professional help.
Suicide Prevention and Addiction - January 2014Dawn Farm
“Suicide Prevention and Addiction” was presented on Tuesday January 28, 2014; by Raymond Dalton, MA; Dawn Farm Outpatient Services Coordinator. There is an alarmingly high prevalence of suicide among people with addiction and people in early recovery. This program will raise awareness of the signs of suicidal thinking and describe ways to offer support and obtain help for people who may be contemplating suicide. Viewers will learn how to recognize suicidal thinking, reach out and offer support to others contemplating suicide, obtain help when suicidal thoughts are present, and access local and national suicide prevention and intervention resources. This program is part of the Dawn Farm Education Series, a FREE, annual workshop series developed to provide accurate, helpful, hopeful, practical, current information about chemical dependency, recovery, family and related issues. The Education Series is organized by Dawn Farm, a non-profit community of programs providing a continuum of chemical dependency services. For information, please see http://www.dawnfarm.org/programs/education-series.
This document discusses several aspects of aging, death, and bereavement. It addresses the physical, cognitive, and psychological changes that occur with aging. It also examines the psychological aspects of aging and how older adults experience difficulties adjusting to new situations. The document defines death and dying, and explores attitudes toward death across different age groups. It also discusses psychogenic death and the legal aspects of death. Finally, it outlines the five stages of impending death and the needs of dying patients.
This document summarizes information about death, dying, and grief. It discusses the definitions of death and a good versus bad death. It outlines the clinical criteria for determining brain death in adults and children. It describes the stages of death and dying as well as the stages of grief. It discusses the duration of grief, phenomenology of grief, and complicated forms of bereavement including chronic, hypertrophic, and delayed grief. It covers biological perspectives on grief and compares bereavement to major depressive disorder. It provides an overview of grief therapy. In concluding, it states that being aware of one's dying imbues humans with values and a desire to make the most of their time.
PowerPoint of Mental Wellness Screening and Education Day - Depression & Anxi...Denise Kan, MSW, LMSW, RSW
This document discusses depression and anxiety disorders. It begins by outlining common myths about each condition and providing definitions. It then describes the different types of depression and anxiety disorders, common symptoms, potential causes, treatment options including medication and psychotherapy, and self-help strategies. The document aims to educate about depression and anxiety disorders and help reduce stigma.
This document provides an overview of bereavement in elderly individuals. It discusses definitions of grief, mourning, and bereavement. It describes the phenomenology and phases of grief as well as types of grief such as anticipatory grief, anniversary reactions, chronic grief, and traumatic bereavement. It examines how age impacts the grief process in older adults and some complications that can arise from bereavement including medical illnesses, psychiatric issues, and persistent complex bereavement disorder. The document also discusses neurobiological factors involved in the grief response.
The document discusses the key physical, psychological, and social changes that occur during adolescence. It describes the hormonal changes of puberty and their effects on physical development, mood, and sexual desires. It also addresses common problems adolescents face, like anxiety over physical changes, idealizing celebrities, experimenting sexually, and conflicts with parents over independence.
Personality refers to characteristics that make individuals unique, including how they think, feel, and behave. A personality disorder is a lasting pattern of inner experiences and behaviors that deviate from cultural norms and cause distress. There are three clusters of personality disorders - odd/eccentric, dramatic/emotional, and anxious/fearful. The document provides details on specific disorders within each cluster such as paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. It describes symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches for several disorders.
Depression is a condition that affects many people and can lead to serious consequences like self-harm and suicide if left untreated. Depression causes changes in mood, thinking, and behavior. It can be caused by genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Left untreated, depression may result in addiction, self-harming behaviors like cutting, and increased risk of suicide. However, with treatment like therapy and medication, most people see significant improvement in their symptoms. Resources like To Write Love on Her Arms provide help and hope to those struggling with depression and related issues.
We explore these two terms, why there is tension between these two groups in the Black Community and addressing actually raising true Black consciousness to progression.
Personality disorders are enduring patterns of behavior that deviate from cultural norms and cause impairment. The document discusses six specific personality disorders - borderline, antisocial, schizoid, histrionic, dissociative identity disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder - and provides their key signs and symptoms. Examples of people who exhibited traits of each disorder are also mentioned. The potential causes of personality disorders discussed are genetics, environmental factors, and brain abnormalities.
Borderline Personality Disorder is a Personality Disorder
BPD is one of several personality disorders recognized by the American Psychiatric Association.
Personality disorders are psychological conditions that begin in adolescence or early adulthood, continue over many years, and cause a great deal of distress.
Personality disorders can also often interfere with a person's ability to enjoy life or achieve fulfillment in relationships, work, or school.
Teen depression has different symptoms than adult depression. Teens may feel irritable and angry rather than sad, and experience physical pains like headaches. Left untreated, teen depression can lead to problems like failing grades at school, reckless behavior, drug addiction, and even suicide. It is important for parents to seek help from a medical professional if their teen exhibits signs of depression like withdrawal, changes in eating or sleeping, and feelings of worthlessness. Talking to a depressed teen and encouraging them to express their emotions can also provide relief while they undergo counseling and therapy treatment.
This document discusses different types of personality disorders. It defines personality as patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors that make individuals unique. Personality disorders involve atypical beliefs and attitudes compared to most people. The document then describes several specific personality disorders including paranoid, schizoid, borderline, antisocial, narcissistic, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders. It provides examples of common thoughts and behaviors associated with each. The conclusion states that personality disorders can be challenging to treat but therapies like CBT aim to help patients change thoughts and behaviors to develop relationships and satisfaction in life.
This document provides an overview and summary of an online training about depression awareness and suicide prevention. The training takes approximately 40 minutes and teaches how to recognize signs of distress in students and how to respond by connecting them with help. It covers topics like understanding depression, warning signs, risk factors for suicide, how to have conversations about suicide, and making referrals to counseling. The overall goal is to train faculty and staff to act as gatekeepers who can help get students in crisis connected to mental health resources.
American Family - Chapter 9, Understanding Mental Illnessbartlettfcs
This document provides an overview of mental and emotional problems, including definitions of mental disorders, types of mental disorders (organic vs. functional), and specific disorders such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, conduct disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. It discusses suicide risk factors and warning signs, the grieving process and its stages, and ways to support those who are grieving.
Mental health refers to psychological well-being and the ability to think, feel, and act in a positive manner. A healthy mind is capable of experiencing a full range of emotions, deals with reality as it is, accepts oneself and others, and is open to new ideas. Mental illness or disorders affect how a person thinks, feels, and behaves and can be caused by biological, psychological, social and environmental factors. Common signs of mental illness include changes in self-care, mood, sleep, and social interactions. Examples of mental disorders discussed include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.
This document provides an introduction to abnormal psychology, psychological disorders, and depression. It begins with defining key terms like abnormal and disorder, and discusses why these definitions are important but also tricky. It then explores different ways of defining abnormal behavior, including deviations from social norms, mental health, and ability to function. The document also discusses what makes a behavior considered abnormal and provides examples of mental disorders. It covers how psychologists diagnose disorders using the DSM manual and different approaches to understanding medical disorders. Specific topics related to depression are then outlined, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis process, and treatment options.
This document discusses mental health and mental illness, particularly in youth. It defines mental health and mental illness, explores common mental illnesses like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and ADHD. It examines causes of mental illness like genetics, neurotransmitters, and environmental factors. The document also addresses stigma, prevention strategies, pathways to recovery, and resources for where to get help.
Mental Health and Coping With Stress in Middle and Late Adolescence.pdfJoyDelaPea5
This document provides information on mental health and coping with stress during adolescence. It defines mental health and discusses various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and others. It also discusses self-esteem, body esteem, and what influences these. The document outlines causes of stress and strategies for coping, including recognizing stress, identifying support systems, and maintaining well-being. Statistics on mental health issues among youth are also presented.
Mental health stigma can be divided into two distinct types: social stigma is characterized by prejudicial attitudes and discriminating behaviour directed towards individuals with mental health problems as a result of the psychiatric label they have been given. In contrast, perceived stigma or self-stigma is the internalizing by the mental health sufferer of their perceptions of discrimination (Link, Cullen, Struening & Shrout, 1989), and perceived stigma can significantly affect feelings of shame and lead to poorer treatment outcomes (Perlick, Rosenheck, Clarkin, Sirey et al., 2001).
This document discusses mental health and mental illness among youth. It defines mental health and mental illness, explores common mental illnesses like mood disorders and anxiety disorders, and discusses causes and prevention strategies. It also addresses stigma and pathways to recovery, providing resources for where to get help.
The document summarizes a PowerPoint presentation about mental health. It directs participants to view the entire presentation then links to a final study survey. It notes there will be no quiz on the presentation content and participants are not required to remember statistics or definitions. The presentation provides information on prevalence of various mental health conditions and myths versus facts related to mental illness. It also discusses biological theories of conditions like depression and schizophrenia.
Depression is a complex condition with many contributing factors that is challenging for both sufferers and their support groups. Spirituality can play a role in coping with and recovering from depression. Treatment options include counseling, psychotherapy, medication, and electroconvulsive therapy. Maintaining positive mental health involves social support, physical activity, stress management, and seeking help from professionals when needed. Faith and spiritual practices can also aid the healing process for some. Overcoming depression is a journey that requires hard work, patience, and support from one's community.
A detailed ppt which explains everything about the importance of human mental health
Including PTSD , Depression , ADHD , Obesity , Autism , Social media over usage , Inferior and superior complexity
The document discusses coping with tragic events in the news and addressing concerns that these events may cause. It provides guidance on talking to children and students about tragedies and signs of concerning behaviors. While mental illness is associated with violence in some cases, it is not a reliable predictor on its own. The document recommends open communication, reassuring children about safety, focusing on helpers after tragedies, and self-care strategies like exercise and talking to a counselor to manage anxiety.
This summary provides an overview of the key points from the document:
1. The document discusses the author's personal experience and perceptions of depression as a mental illness. Through studying psychology, the author gained a better understanding of depression and realized their previous views were limited.
2. Growing up, the author was surrounded by people who did not view depression as a real mental illness and thought it did not warrant treatment. There is also stigma around mental illness in South African society.
3. The document defines depression according to the DSM-5, outlining cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and other symptoms. It emphasizes that depression significantly impacts one's ability to function.
Coping With Transitions Short Version Presented To Northwestern 12 08 1keasme
The document discusses adjustment disorders and strategies to help prevent and manage them. It defines adjustment disorders as short-term disturbances in response to an identifiable stressor. Common symptoms can include depressed mood, anxiety, behavioral changes, and physical problems. Risk factors include life stressors, personality traits, coping skills, and social support. Prevention strategies encourage healthy lifestyle habits, self-care, developing a support system, and seeking help from a healthcare provider if needed.
The document discusses mental health and well-being for teenagers. It defines mental health and explains that it affects how people think, feel and act. The document then discusses common mental health issues for teenagers like depression and anxiety. It emphasizes that these issues should not be ignored and treatment is important. The document also discusses self-esteem, body image, eating disorders, and strategies for supporting mental health. Finally, it discusses the importance of healthy eating, physical activity, and sleep for mental well-being.
Lecture delivered at the Adebimpe Youth Alive Care Foundation Convergence 2019 (Mental Health Literacy Bootcamp).
An attempt at demystifying the concept of mental health disorder with emphasis on depression.
Depression and suicide are serious issues that can affect anyone. Depression involves prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and helplessness. It ranges from mild to severe. Suicide is often considered a temporary relief from problems rather than seen as death. Warning signs of suicide include talking about killing oneself, giving away possessions, depression, substance abuse, and risk-taking behaviors. Friends can help by listening non-judgmentally, taking threats seriously, and telling responsible adults if safety is a concern. Both depression and suicide require professional help.
The document discusses mental health and mental illness. It defines mental health as encompassing outlook, relationships, self-image, and ability to handle stress and emotions. Mental illnesses exist on a continuum from mild problems to serious conditions. About 1 in 5 teens experience mental health problems annually and 1 in 17 Americans have a serious mental illness. Common mental illnesses include depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. The document provides warning signs of mental illness and emphasizes that treatment through medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help with recovery. It aims to reduce stigma by noting that mental illness can affect anyone and is not their fault.
This document provides an overview of mental health and mental illness issues in adults. It begins by defining mental health from a holistic perspective involving the body, mind, and spirit. Approximately 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental illness like anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or substance abuse. Genetic and environmental factors can contribute to mental illness. The document addresses stigma, types of illnesses, living with illnesses, concurrent disorders, consequences, causes, differences among genders and cultures, and recovery. It aims to educate about mental health issues and create understanding.
This document discusses depression, anxiety, and epilepsy in children and adolescents. It finds that depression and anxiety are very common psychiatric issues for those with epilepsy. Rates of depression are over 20% for those with epilepsy, compared to 3.7-6.7% in the general population. Anxiety affects up to 40% of youth with epilepsy. The document examines risk factors, screening tools, and treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressant medications to address the high prevalence of these important mental health issues in pediatric epilepsy.
Similar to Living with Mental Illness - A Student's Guide (20)
1. Brown-Séquard syndrome was first described in 1850 based on observations of machete injuries in sugar cane farmers, with key features being ipsilateral motor paralysis and mixed sensory loss below the level of the spinal cord lesion.
2. Understanding the anatomy of ascending and descending spinal tracts is important for explaining the clinical features of Brown-Séquard syndrome and other spinal cord injuries.
3. Injuries can disrupt motor or sensory tracts differently, causing varying neurological deficits depending on whether the lesion involves upper or lower motor neurons.
The document discusses several inflammatory arthropathies known as spondylarthropathies. They are commonly associated with the HLA B27 gene and involve entheses, synovium, and the spine. Major types include ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthropathy, reactive arthritis, and enteropathic arthritis. They often present with enthesitis, uveitis, and spondylitis and are treated with NSAIDs, DMARDs, anti-TNF drugs, or surgery depending on the specific condition and symptoms.
Lung cancer is classified into two main types - non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). NSCLC makes up about 80% of cases and can be further divided into squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. SCLC accounts for 10-15% of lung cancers and grows more quickly. The main symptoms are cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood. Risk factors include smoking, asbestos exposure, and radiation exposure. Diagnosis involves tests such as sputum analysis, biopsies, CT scans, and PET scans to determine the cancer type and stage. Treatment options depend on the cancer type and stage but may include surgery, chemotherapy
Eczema herpeticum is a potentially life-threatening herpes infection that occurs when herpes simplex virus infects disrupted skin in patients with pre-existing skin conditions like eczema or atopic dermatitis. It presents with clusters of vesicles and punched-out erosions that spread and become hemorrhagic and crusted. Diagnosis involves identifying characteristic lesions along with fever and pain, and can be confirmed with tests like Tzanck smear, viral culture, or antibody testing. Aggressive treatment with IV acyclovir is required to prevent complications like herpes keratitis, which can lead to blindness. Early recognition and effective antiviral therapy are important given the potential severity of eczema her
The vagus nerve connects organs in the neck and below to the brainstem. It has both sensory and motor functions and helps control the heart rate, digestion, and other involuntary processes. Stimulation of the vagus nerve has been shown to reduce seizures, experimental pain, and inflammation, and may help treat conditions like epilepsy, obesity, and heart disease. Damage to the vagus nerve or its connections in the brainstem can impact swallowing, heart rate variability, and level of consciousness.
Poor water and sanitation are responsible for a huge global burden of disease, with contaminated water alone contributing to about 2.4 million preventable deaths per year, mainly in children. While progress has been made in increasing access to safe water and improved sanitation, current rates of progress will not meet the Millennium Development Goal targets. Water and sanitation remain a low priority on international development agendas despite their importance for health and achieving the MDGs. Coordinated efforts are still needed to address this critical issue.
This document discusses medical student electives in developing countries. It notes potential benefits like exposure to rare diseases and personal growth, but also flags ethical issues. Electives could exploit local health systems and raise false expectations. They may perpetuate neo-colonial practices by benefiting students and health systems in wealthy countries more than local populations. The document also examines how non-governmental organizations can undermine public health systems and calls for electives to minimize harm, respect local needs, and establish long-term exchange programs to provide mutual benefit.
This document provides an overview of global health by defining key terms, outlining major players and organizations, and summarizing the history and evolution of the field from 1945 to the present day. It describes how global health has shifted from a focus on infectious disease control to addressing social determinants of health and health issues that transcend national borders. Major milestones discussed include the founding of the UN and WHO, the Alma-Ata Declaration, structural adjustment policies, the Millennium Declaration and MDGs, debt relief campaigns, and the establishment of the Global Fund. The summary highlights the ongoing tension between disease-specific and comprehensive primary healthcare approaches.
The document discusses how international organizations like the WTO and treaties it has established like TRIPS and GATS impact healthcare. The WTO aims to liberalize trade and its dispute process enforces agreements. TRIPS established intellectual property standards that require drug patenting, raising prices. Some countries like Brazil and South Africa have issued compulsory licenses to produce cheaper generics, facing opposition from pharmaceutical companies but helping improve access to treatment.
Global health examines influences on health across borders, including issues like globalization, poverty, and human rights. It draws from multiple disciplines. Globalization refers to reducing barriers between countries, leading to increased trade, investment, and communication. This has effects like economic growth but also rising inequalities. Agreements like TRIPS have increased pharmaceutical patent protection globally, raising concerns about access to medicines, especially in developing countries. Networks of both commercial and civil society actors have been important in debates over balancing intellectual property with public health.
Migration of health care workers has both positive and negative effects on health. It reduces the availability of health services in source countries while increasing access in destination countries. This unequal distribution of health workers is driven by push factors like low pay and poor working conditions in source countries and pull factors like higher wages in destination countries. As a result, source countries experience worse health outcomes due to lack of health workers, while destination countries receive an indirect subsidy through the receipt and employment of trained medical professionals from poorer nations. Proposed policy responses aim to strengthen health systems in source countries, implement ethical recruitment practices, and foster partnerships between nations to promote more equitable health worker distribution.
Global institutions play major roles in health financing and policy. The key players discussed are the World Health Organization (WHO), World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Trade Organization (WTO). The WHO is the UN agency for health, working with 192 member states. The World Bank aims to reduce poverty through loans and policy advice to developing countries. The IMF promotes international monetary cooperation and provides temporary financial assistance. The WTO, formed in 1995, ensures trade flows freely through treaties and enforcement mechanisms, which some criticize can undermine public health systems.
Haemochromatosis is an autosomal recessive condition characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the body. It affects around 0.5% of Caucasians and usually presents in the 40s-50s with a triad of pigmentation, diabetes mellitus, and hepatomegaly. Diagnosis involves blood tests showing elevated serum iron, transferrin saturation over 50%, and elevated serum ferritin. Liver biopsy can confirm iron deposition and damage. Treatment aims to reduce iron stores through weekly venesection of 1 unit of blood for 6-12 months followed by maintenance venesection.
Ascites is an abnormal collection of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, commonly caused by portal hypertension due to cirrhosis. It results from sodium and water retention triggered by vasodilation and activation of the renin-angiotensin system, as well as increased hydrostatic pressure and transudation of fluid from the liver and spleen into the peritoneal cavity. Hypoalbuminemia due to decreased liver function also contributes by reducing plasma oncotic pressure. Spironolactone is used as treatment as it is an aldosterone antagonist. Management involves dietary sodium restriction, diuretics, stopping alcohol, monitoring for complications, and procedures such as paracentesis or shunts.
The liver has two lobes, separated by veins, and is divided into sections supplied by individual blood vessels. Blood flows through hepatic arteries and portal veins into sinusoids, where waste is filtered by Kupffer cells in the space of Disse before draining into hepatic veins. The liver performs many functions including synthesizing proteins, metabolizing carbohydrates and lipids, and detoxifying hormones and drugs. Liver function can be assessed through blood tests of enzymes and proteins.
Antidepressants such as SSRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs work by increasing levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, or both in the brain. SSRIs are generally first-line treatment and safer in overdose than TCAs, but TCAs may be better for severe depression. Both classes of drugs can cause side effects like dry mouth, nausea, and sexual dysfunction. Antidepressants may take 10-20 days to work and should be continued for at least 6 months after symptoms improve to prevent relapse. Combining certain antidepressants can be dangerous due to increased serotonin levels.
Gout is caused by deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints, which leads to acute inflammation. It typically presents as sudden severe pain, swelling and redness in one joint, most commonly the big toe. Diagnosis is made based on symptoms and identification of crystals in joint fluid under polarized microscopy. Treatment involves medications to reduce symptoms during acute attacks as well as long-term drugs like allopurinol or probenecid to lower uric acid levels and prevent future episodes. Without treatment, gout can progress to a chronic stage with multiple joint involvement and growth of tophi deposits in the tissues.
Review of orthopaedic services: Prepared for the Auditor General for Scotland...meducationdotnet
1. Orthopaedics is a large specialty that treats musculoskeletal conditions through surgery, medication, and rehabilitation. It accounts for a significant portion of NHS spending and activity in Scotland.
2. Waiting times for orthopaedic services have reduced in recent years through changes to service delivery and additional funded activity. However, further improvements to meet 18-week referral targets will be challenging to sustain.
3. There is variation in orthopaedic efficiency across Scotland that is not fully explained by resources or procedures. The report finds opportunities to use existing resources more efficiently through measures like increasing day surgery and reducing hospital length of stay.
This document discusses the use of muscle relaxants in anesthesia and the potential role of sugammadex as a reversal agent. It provides background on why muscle relaxants are used, types of muscle relaxants, and current problems with reversal agents. It then summarizes research on sugammadex, which appears to be a more effective reversal agent than anticholinesterases, allowing faster recovery from neuromuscular blockade. Sugammadex may allow safer use of muscle relaxants and replace agents like suxamethonium, but economic factors will also influence its adoption.
This document contains a series of slides related to ophthalmology. It tests the reader's knowledge on topics like visual acuity measurements, refractive errors, eye abnormalities, causes of vision loss, and eye examination techniques. The slides include images showing conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachments, and more. Key details are provided about diagnoses, symptoms, investigations, and treatments.
1. Have you ever
stigmatised or
discriminated
against somebody?
Have you ever been
discriminated
against?
2. What were your
responses to those
questions?
Keep those in mind
while you think
about the following…
3. How do you think
stigma affects those
with mental health
problems?
*
Have you ever seen
doctors or other
medical students
behave or talk in a
stigmatising way?
*
What effect do you
think this might have
on patients?
What do you know about
stigma?
*
Have you ever seen
stigma? What happened?
*
Do you think it is
important to have an
understanding of stigma
as a medical student?
*
Why is mental illness so
stigmatised?
4. Now keep those
questions in mind
while you read this
presentation, and see
if some of your
responses change by
the end.
REMEMBER
Learning medicine
isn’t just about
passing OSCEs…
5. What
is
stigma?
Stigma is defined as a sign
of shame; of being rejected,
shunned or disapproved of
by others.
Stigmatisation in relation
to mental health can take
many forms. These include
name calling, distancing
oneself from somebody who
develops mental illness, or
dismissing their experiences.
Stigma is an opinion or
judgment. When stigma is
acted upon, it becomes
discrimination.
6. Negative attitudes to
people with mental illness
are prevalent in society.
At a young age we learn
through our society to have
certain prejudices that are
carried through into
adulthood.
People with mental illness
are stereotyped; for
example the idea of
schizophrenics as violent
potential killers, or people
suffering from depression
as lazy and self indulgent.
Why does
stigma
happen?
7. Sterotyping makes it easier to
dismiss the experiences of whole
groups of people, creating a ‘them
and us’ mentality.
Negative coverage of mental
illness in the media reinforces
stereotypes, increasing the level of
false negative beliefs about people
with mental illness.
This causes people with mental
illness to become dehumanised
and socially excluded.
This can alter the perception that
someone might have of their self,
leading to further social isolation,
reliance on others and alcohol and
drug abuse.
Why does
stigma
happen?
8. Link and Phelan 2001 proposed
that:
• Human variations are labelled,
which creates distinct groups
of people.
• Labels tie people to negative
attributes in accordance with
society and culture. This causes
stereotyping to occur.
• Labelling creates distinct
groups, allowing an ‘us and
them’ mentality. This
dehumanises the labelled
group.
• Labelling causes discrimination
and loss of social status,
leading to unequal
circumstances
Link BG, Phelan JC. Conceptualizing
Stigma. Annual Review of Sociology 2001;
27: 363-385.
Labelling
and
stigma
9. Stigma socially discredits
a person by assigning a
negative attribute to him
or her. This creates a
negative, undesirable
stereotype.
It is the reaction of
others which spoils
identity.
Erving Goffman, Stigma: Notes on
the Management of Spoiled Identity,
1963
Goffman
1963
10. Goffman describes three
categories of people: the
stigmatised, the normal
and the wise.
The wise are a division
of the normal’ but
understand and
sympathise with the
stigmatised, and
therefore are accepted.
The wise may also bear
stigma from the normal
for being accepted by
the stigmatised. This is
called courtesy stigma,
or stigma by association.
Goffman
1963
11. Research carried out by the
Mental Health Foundation found
that of people who have
experienced mental ill health:
• 56% have experienced stigma
from their family.
• 51% have experienced stigma
from their friends.
• 47% have suffered from
discrimination in the workplace.
• 37% have experienced
discrimination when seeking
employment.
• 44% have experienced stigma
from their GP
• 35% have suffered
discrimination from other
health care professionals
How
common
is stigma?
Figures are taken from
http://www.rethink.org/living_with_mental_illness/ev
eryday_living/stigma_mental_illness/index.html
12. Stigma creates barriers.
People who may be
suffering from mental
illness are reluctant to
access services because of
the negativities associated
with having a diagnosis of
mental illness.
Stigma from healthcare
professionals can lead to
people with mental illness
not being taken seriously,
not being listened to and
not being supported.
It can also lead to a
reluctance to discuss
symptoms of mental health
problems with patients.
Stigma in
healthcare
13. Read the following
accounts of 2
members of the
Patient Voices
group, as they share
their experiences of
living with mental
illness and the
stigma it brings.
14. Name:
Dr Kenneth Townend PhD
Age:
53
What condition were you diagnosed
with?
Depression due to stroke
When did it all begin?
2004 when i had a stroke and lost my
car/job/hobbies etc
What symptoms did you experience?
Tired all the time. Stressed at anyone,
would throw plates etc. Due to being told
“go in a corner for the rest of my life” by
a hospital consultant.
Where you aware that the symptoms
you were experiencing were not
“normal”, or did they feel “normal” to
you?
I wasn’t aware until i had bereavement
counselling.
Are you aware of anything (such as a
life event, personal trauma, childhood
experience etc) that triggered it all off?
I believe it may have been there a long
time but my 2x strokes bowel cancer in a
5 year period, made it much worse.
How did it affect your personal life,
family, and relationships?
My wife left me.
How was your social life affected?
Unable to go out, could not afford hobbies
never mind do them.
If you were employed, how was this
affected?
Stroke 2004 - spent 12 weeks in hospital,
lost job as a commercial diver working in
20 countries.
15. Most importantly, how did it make
YOU feel?
Stayed in bed all day
How did other people react to your
behaviour/symptoms?
Often did not as never went out.
When did you decide to seek help from
a medical professional?
My GP talking to me, thought that since
the psych road was not for me but maybe
death/bereavement counselling was for
me.
Was there an event that triggered your
desire to seek help?
Shut in the house 24/7 drove me up the
wall.
How helpful were the medical
professionals you saw?
Angry patient wanting answers, i still 6
years down the road know how and why i
had a stroke.
What was the outcome of your seeking
help?
Cope with my lot as i did not smoke drink
and a medical every 6 months before my
stroke as a dive medic.
How did treatment work for you?
Got me to not ditch the old Ken’, but park
him in a safe place where i could still visit
him, but also where i was a new stronger
Ken.
16. How do you feel now?
From 134 tablets a week I had when I
came home, because of Jools, Delia ,
Joanne and Susan [Patient Voices Project]
I am now free of some of the pressures
and able to again stand tall.
What do you think can be done to help
to reduce this stigma, as doctors,
individuals, or society in general?
Listen to my needs as well as others do
not put us in a box.
Do you have any words of wisdom for
the doctors of the future?
Listen to me. I am the expert patient,
whereas you are the doctor
Best wishes
Dr Kenneth Townend PhD
17. Name:
Susan Jane Thornton
Age:
47
What condition were you diagnosed
with?
Bi polar, Cyclothymia:
A persistently unstable mood, involving
many periods of depression and over
elation. This instability usually develops in
late adolescence and follows a chronic
course, although moods maybe within
norms for months at a time.
Mood swings are usually perceived by the
individual as being unrelated to life events.
The diagnosis is difficult to establish
without a prolonged period of observation
or an unusually good account of the
individuals past behaviour.
Cyclothymia frequently fails to come to
medical attention. The essential feature is
a persistent instability of mood involving
numerous periods of deep depression.
When did it all begin?
Early symptoms were recognised in
childhood/adolescence. Overall diagnosis
was revealed in May 2009
What symptoms did you experience?
Difficult making decisions; problems
concentrating;, poor memory recall; guilt;
self criticism; low self esteem; pessimism;
self destructive thinking; continuously
feeling sad; apathy: hopelessness;
helplessness; irritable, quick temper, lack
motivation; social withdrawal; appetite
change; lack of sexual desire; feel neglect;
fatigue or insomnia.
This disorder is common in the relatives of
patients with bi polar disorder and some
individuals with Cyclothymia eventually
develop bi polar disorder themselves. It
may persists throughout adult life, cease
temporary or permanently, or develop
into more server mood swings meeting the
criteria for bipolar disorder or recurrent
depressive disorder in rare cases.
18. Are you aware of anything (such as a
life event, personal trauma, childhood
experience etc) that triggered it all off?
Events that may have effected/triggered
personal trauma include;
• 5-16yrs-Turblant childhood, father
abusive and had mental health issues.
• 16-19yrs-left school and found “booze
and boys”
• 19-27yrs-Married family, mother
died at 27 also husband left, mother
was the only one that understand and
listened, that meant I didn’t have any
positive reinforcement, be that a
sociable or affectionate figure.
• 27-37yrs-Working full time and
bringing two children up, without any
support of guidance from peers.
• 37-40yrs-stress brought on drug
addiction, taking stimulates to keep up
with daily routine of work and family
life.
• 40-43yrs-total breakdown, lost job
due to inability to sustain a working
life under the conditions. This involved
wrecking the family home, by means of
taking a knife to carpets, curtains,
furniture. All in front of both children
(boys were 11 & 13) Also lashing out
at authority figures, being either locked
up or forced to stay in doors, this was
due to the fact they didn’t understand
the illness that I was going through and
was stigmatised as being an alcoholic.
AS alcohol was my coping mechanism
at the time.
• 43-45yrs-given a diagnosis that I
thought was right for the first time.
Where you aware that the symptoms
you were experiencing were not
“normal”, or did they feel “normal” to
you?
No, initially I knew things weren’t normal,
but could not distinguish between the
norm.
19. How was your social life affected?
After my husband left and had to bring
up too young children by myself, while
working full time, my social life became no
existent. I never had time to myself
brought on pressure, leading to bouts of
depression. The depression became more
intensified, recurring long term sickness
and instability. Which finally lead to a
total and utter breakdown. This involved
both my children, who coped in different
ways.
If you were employed, how was this
affected?
I lost my job after 20 years with a local
authority, at middle management level.
This brought on a severe spiral of
depression. Leading to being arrested and
vandalising property as no one was
listening, I knew I had a problem and
wanted help but at this time, I wasn’t
receiving any due to the stigma of being
perceived as an alcoholic.
Most importantly, how did it make
YOU feel?
From five years till forty three years, I was
misunderstood and never listened to. From
then on, when I had been given a
diagnosis/my label, I was able to take a
stand and understand that instead of
trying to treat it, I able to learn how to
live with it.
How did other people react to your
behaviour/symptoms?
Peers didn’t not understand, again
stigmatised me as nothing but a alcoholic,
without looking deeper into the issue
involved. This means looking at the person
instead of the problem. The person being
able to change and being able to define the
issue (problem) and not the problem
defining the person.
20. When did you decide to seek help from
a medical professional?
I have been trying to seek help from both
medical and professional institutes from a
young age, this being after a parent passed
away and was given no help by any of my
peers, which then brought on the stress of
bringing up a family and holding down a
full time job by myself.
It was only when I had lost my job and
had been binge drinking for over 3 years
and had to go to hospital, in which I was
told if I don’t stop I will not be able to see
my sons grow up, which gave me a
incentive to live and get back on track.
After realising that I need help to get over
this and was given a diagnosis I could
learn to live with, I dealt first my the
alcohol, after 18 months of abstinence I
conditioned myself to have a “on/off
switch”.
This then gave me the confidence to go
and seek out for all help that was out
there, one of the criticisms I have was this
“was trying to find the right help first
time round” and the added factor that
the clinicians did not listen.
Was there an event that triggered your
desire to seek help?
After months of binging and self harm,
my son had to take me to hospital, after
the doctor advising me that I cant carry
on like this, I decided to seek out all the
help and advice I could.
How helpful were the medical
professionals you saw?
At first (again this was over 20 years,
when the establishment was set in their
ways and everyone who had a drinking
problem was categorized anti social and
this was not actually the case) many
people who use drink as a coping
mechanism have mental illness before
starting to abuse instead of the other way
round.
21. What was the outcome of your seeking
help?
Again firstly I was made out to be a
lunatic!!! After my diagnosis, it was like a
revelation. This then gave me the
confidence to move forward and learn
about my label and how to embrace it
positively.
How did treatment work for you?
I’m still here to tell the tale and to re-
educate the clinicians.
How do you feel now?
I feel better in myself and have a more
stable relationship with my children, this
has also had an impact on my social life as
I have both new friends and colleagues to
help me through, but also have gained
more insight into how the patient can help
themselves by helping others in certain
situations like mine.
What do you think can be done to help
to reduce this stigma, as doctors,
individuals, or society in general?
To ask the patients more in-depth
questions not as such relating to the
problem in hand to try get more of an
insight into the overall sphere of the
patient/s involved, this means taking a
more detailed look into the patient’s
history. In some cases maybe speaking to a
relative who has been and witnessed the
patients mental state and/or
deterioration.
In general we could try and combat
overall stigmatisation trough re-education
and pressure groups, to beat, not just
stigma but any sort of discrimination that
involves mental health issues. By focusing
on the “soon to be, new generation of
doctors and councillors of tomorrow” by
getting them at the core, we can not just
educate them into how people may
establish these mental issues but setting a
ground base/work of issues to ignite fuels
of concern and try to stamp it out before
the patient decomposes into a serious
mental state.
22. Do you have any words of wisdom for
the doctors of the future?
• The three C’s; having the Courage to
Challenge Constructively. Patients will
challenge you constructively please take
this as a compliment they will have a
better understanding and both
patient/punter/number/whatever
clinicians want to call us will learn to
negotiate as a team, thus proving to be
more cost effective in the long term.
• We relish our own correctness” I told
you so” crow over other peoples
mistakes and dismiss those who
challenge, those disagree with us, as
arrogant, idiotic or just pain mad, that
is why I am a mentalist activitist !
• Medically activated/enhanced humour,
(straight talking with a hint of witty
banter) this may ease the patient into
giving more than they would normally
digress to your average
doctor/professional.
Is there anything else you would like to
add?
Thank you for asking and remembering
me, I hope this gives you an insight into
how a patient can help, not just with
telling the professional the problem they
may have (self-diagnosis) by giving a
better perspective of an individual with
health problems, if you need to use any of
the above for publication please could you
ask me before hand. I wish you all great
success in your future as ‘The doctors of
tomorrow’
Kind Regards
Susan Jane Thornton
23. LISTEN
(My Journey)
Twenty years, has been and gone,
Nobody listened and it all went wrong.
Time after time, they said I was a
drunk
By no means, I knew I wasn’t a monk.
Over and over,
They called me mad sue,
Bloody hell!
What was I guna do.
Lost my job,
Lost my home,
Lost my integrity too.
So I knocked on door after door,
Until my knuckles were roar.
Stitches, plaster and scalp shaved too
How far was I guna go?
Guess what,
Broken bones and stab wounds too.
You clinicians in there, what are you
going to do,
Please, please listen
If you know what’s best for you.
That’s why you get paid so much for
what you do,
Now I get paid for you to listen,
And listen you will DO!
Hip hip hurray,
You have listened at last.
I now know what you have subjected
me too;
Bi polar, Bi polar,
You clinicians say, by heck you listened
at last to my dismay.
Hip hip hurray I shall be on my way,
Learning to live again
Hip Hip Hurray!
By Susan Jane Thornton
Transcript Scott Howells
Copyright June 2011
24. A good website containing an
overview of stigma aimed at people
suffering with mental health
problems:
www.rethink.org/living_with_mental_i
llness/everyday_living/stigma_mental
_illness/index.html
Journal article providing an overview
of stigma, it’s effects and how it can
be reduced:
Byrne P. Stigma of mental illness
and ways of diminishing it. Advances
in Psychiatric Treatment 2000; 6:
65-72. Available to access online at:
http://apt.rcpsych.org/cgi/content/f
ull/6/1/65
Time to change campaign. Includes
some real life stories from people
with mental health problems.
http://www.time-to-change.org.uk/
The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Fair Deal Campaign.
http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/campaigns
/fairdeal.aspx
All images courtesy of
Microsoft Office