Since the beginning of time, humans have struggled with mental health issues, and Americans are no exception to this truth. While it's true that the United States has come a long way in its stigmatization of mental illness, millions of Americans still battle mental disorders and issues on a daily basis. From our politicians to our homeless, mental illness is a growing epidemic in the United States, with more disorders becoming more and more common. Whether its PTSD in our veterans or narcissism in our presidents, it's no secret that America is filled with mentally ill individuals. In fact, studies from Mental Health America show that 1 in 5 Americans battles a mental health in condition. However, this isn't to say that all mental illnesses are necessarily a bad thing. In fact, some of the most beloved Americans have battled mental health problems including Abraham Lincoln (clinical depression), Francis Ford Coppola (bipolar disorder), Kurt Vonnegut (PTSD), Walt Disney (dyslexia), Leonardo DiCaprio (OCD) and Michael Phelps (ADHD).
The goal of this exhibit is not only to educate you on the prevalence of different mental disorders in the United States, but also to humanize mental illness as a concept. Although the medical community has made a notable amount of progress in their treatment of mental disorders (ex: homosexuality is no longer considered a mental disorder), the stigma against mental health is still strong and still keeps us from seeing people who suffer these illnesses as exactly that: people. Mental illness is not a choice. It is not evil and it is not "wrong." It is the way some brains are wired to think and behave due to a variety of environmental, social, and biological factors. So as you explore this exhibit, please keep in mind that anyone can suffer from mental illness - even the people you'd least expect.
The goal of this exhibit is not only to educate you on the prevalence of different mental disorders in the United States, but also to humanize mental illness as a concept. Although the medical community has made a notable amount of progress in their treatment of mental disorders (ex: homosexuality is no longer considered a mental disorder), the stigma against mental health is still strong and still keeps us from seeing people who suffer these illnesses as exactly that: people. Mental illness is not a choice. It is not evil and it is not "wrong." It is the way some brains are wired to think and behave due to a variety of environmental, social, and biological factors. So as you explore this exhibit, please keep in mind that anyone can suffer from mental illness - even the people you'd least expect.
Mental illnesses and disorders are classified according to six main categories: anxiety, addiction and impulse, eating, mood, personality, and psychotic disorders. Although there are many other types of mental disorders, mental health professionals have allotted these six as being "common."
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Anxiety Disorders
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 40 million American adults (ages 18 or older) are affected by anxiety disorders in any given year. Anxiety frequently arises alongside other mental and physical disorders, especially addiction disorders involving alcohol or substance abuse. In some cases, a person suffering from one or more mental illness in addition to an anxiety disorder may need to seek treatment for their other mental disorder(s) before they are able to effectively respond to treatment for their anxiety.
In order for anxiety to be considered a disorder, one must experience anxiety symptoms for a period of at least six months. Although each anxiety disorder has its own distinctive symptoms, all are centered around irrational, exaggerated feelings of fear and trepidation. National Institute of Mental Health, compiler. Anxiety Disorders. US Dept. of Health and Human Services, 2009. Digital Public Library of America, permanent.access.gpo.gov/lps125970/nimhanxiety.pdf. Accessed 10 Jan. 2018. |
The video above was created by an organization called Beating Anxiety, and provides a brief summary of the different types of anxiety disorders. The video pays close attention to the individual components and symptoms of each disorder, thus giving a limited but accurate description of each.
"Types of Anxiety Disorders And Their Symptoms." Youtube, uploaded by Beating Anxiety, 10 Jan. 2015, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1JFfEkyoqc. Accessed 11 Jan. 2018. |
generalized anxiety disorder
As reported by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by incessant and extreme worry regarding a number of issues. People with GAD generally expect the worst outcome in every situation, even when there is no evident cause for concern. Given that all anxiety disorders are rooted in a heavy dislike for uncertainty, those who suffer from GAD may attempt to plan or manage a situation, oftentimes before it has even occurred.
Roughly 6.8 million adults (3.1% of the world's population) suffer from GAD in any given year. Women, however, are twice as likely as men to be affected by this disorder. Although the exact cause of GAD is unknown, mental health professionals point to biological factors, family history, and stressful life experiences as the prime culprits. This illustration, created by HelpingGuide.org, gives a visual of the cycle of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Thus, it helps the audience develop a better understanding of the psychology behind this particular disorder.
Image via "The Vicious Cycle of OCD." Helpguide.org,www.helpguide.org/images/anxiety/ocd-cycle-400.jpg. Accessed 12 Jan. 2018.
post traumatic stress disorderAccording to the National Institute of Health, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that develops after one undergoes a frightening experience that typically involves physical violence or the threat of physical violence. Any individual who was harmed or witnessed someone else undergo a harmful event is subject to developing PTSD. Incidents that may cause this disorder include, but are not limited to war, mugging, torture, rape (see quote on right), being kidnapped or held hostage, child abuse, car and train wrecks, plane crashes, bombings, or natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods.
Many individuals who suffer from this disorder experience flashbacks that force them to relive these traumatic moments during the day and at night. These flashbacks are typically compromised of images, sounds, smells, or feelings, and can be provoked by ordinary incidents such as "a slamming door or a car backfiring." PTSD symptoms usually start around three months after the incident, though in some cases they may occur as late as a few years. Symptoms must occur for more than a month in order for one to be diagnosed with PTSD. Recovery times for this disorder vary depending on the individual and his or her's experience. For some, they may recover within a period of six months, while for others, this disorder may last a lifetime. Above is a drawing called "PTSD Hell: Nam On My Mind" by Rick McCarty, a Vietnam War veteran who suffered PTSD. McCarty's art gives an example of the sorts of horrific memories victims of PTSD are forced to relive.
McCarty, Rick. PTSD Hell: Nam on My Mind. 1961-1975. Digital Public Library of America, cdm15860.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p15860coll1/id/ 21. Accessed 13 Jan. 2018. |
Common symptoms of GAD include restlessness, feeling "on edge", fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or trouble falling or staying asleep. Three of these symptoms must be present for a period six or more months before one can officially be diagnosed with GAD.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America. "Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)." Anxiety and Depression Association of America, edited by Anxiety and Depression Association of America, adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad/symptoms. Accessed 12 Jan. 2018. obsessive compulsive disorderThe American Psychiatric Association describes Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) as an anxiety disorder in which people experience "unwanted, reoccurring thoughts, ideas, or sensations (obsessions)." These obsessions spur people who suffer from OCD to perform a specific action in a repetitive manner (compulsions). These rigid compulsions frequently interfere with a person's daily life, and failure to perform these tasks causes individuals with OCD enormous stress. People with this disorder find it difficult to focus on anything other than their obsessions and have a hard time controlling their compulsions. Common compulsions include cleaning, repeating, checking, ordering and arranging, and mental compulsions.
An estimated 1.2% of Americans suffer from OCD. Female adults, however, are slightly more affected by this disorder than men. OCD typically develops during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. The American Psychiatric Association. "What Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?"The American Psychiatric Association, edited by The American Psychiatric Association, www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ocd/what-is-obsessive-compulsive-disorder. Accessed 11 Jan. 2018. I was raped when I was 25 years old. For a long time, I spoke of the rape as though it was something that happened to someone else. I was very aware that it had happened to me, but there was just no feeling." PTSD affects an estimated 7.7 million adults in the United States alone, although it can develop at any age. Evidence shows that women are more likely to suffer from PTSD than men. In addition, further data shows that vulnerability to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder may run in families. Someone who suffers from this disorder may also suffer from depression, substance abuse, or another anxiety disorder.
National Institute of Mental Health, compiler. Anxiety Disorders. US Dept. of Health and Human Services, 2009. Digital Public Library of America, permanent.access.gpo.gov/lps125970/nimhanxiety.pdf. Accessed 10 Jan. 2018. Statistics provided by the National Center for PTSD show that 6 out of every 10 men and 5 out of every 10 females experience at least traumatic event in their lives. However, these same statistics show that even though women are statistically less likely to experience a trauma, 10 out of every 100 women will develop PTSD as opposed to 4 out of every 100 men. In total an estimated 7 to 8 out of every 10 people will suffer from PTSD in their lives.
"How Common Is PTSD?" National Center for PTSD, www.ptsd.va.gov/public/PTSD-overview/basics/how-common-is-ptsd.asp. Accessed 13 Jan. 2018. Research from the New York State Office of Mental Health shows that war veterans are one of the most common demographics affected by PTSD. In fact, PTSD is believed to be found in an estimated 30% of Vietnam War veterans, 10% Gulf War veterans, 6 to 11% of Afghanistan War veterans, and 12 to 10% of Iraq War veterans. New York State Office of Mental Health. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. 2014. New York State Government Documents 116326. Digital Public Library of America, nysl.cloudapp.net/awweb/ pdfanopenerpage?sid=A2506A6F38FB2EA2648D89F320CACFFE&ctm=1515866382700&md=1&attac hment=yes&start= 6&attachment=yes. Accessed 13 Jan. 2018. |
additional information on anxiety disorders
The Missouri Department of Health's Understanding Mental Illness: A Guide to Brain Disorders, Medicine, and Therapy states that anxiety disorders may potentially correlate with severe depression, eating disorders, and suicide rates. They may, as the document suggests, also be tied to an array of genetic, social, and environmental factors in addition to specific medical conditions. Additional data shows that individuals who suffer from an anxiety disorder are at an increased risk for developing alcoholism or another substance abuse problem. Moreover, data also indicates that anxiety disorders are closely related to Neurological disorders such as Tourette's syndrome, tic disorders, and migraines. Although evidence proves that anxiety disorders are successfully treatable, only one-third of people who have a diagnosed anxiety disorder are able to find relief.
Missouri Department of Health. Understanding Mental Illness: A Guide to Brain Disorders, Medicine, and Therapy. 2011.
Missouri Department of Health. Understanding Mental Illness: A Guide to Brain Disorders, Medicine, and Therapy. 2011.
Eating Disorders
According to the National Institute of Mental Health's Eating Disorders, this type of mental illness is "marked by extremes." Eating disorders are characterized by an intense obsession with one's weight and body image. Someone suffering from an eating disorder may display dangerous eating behaviors, including eating too much or too little. Although eating disorders typically start out as a controlled phenomenon, eventually the desire to eat more or less than the usual amount grows progressively stronger.
Eating disorders consist of two main types: anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. The third type is referred to as EDNOS ("eating disorders not otherwise specified"). Binge eating disorder is classified as a type of EDNOS.
Eating disorders commonly arise during adolescence or early adulthood. In rare cases, they may emerge during childhood or later in one's adult life. Females are significantly more likely than males to develop an eating disorder, although do account for a believed five to fifteen percent of patients with anorexia.
Eating Disorders. Yale University, oyc.yale.edu/sites/default/files/EatingDisorders.pdf. Accessed 12 Jan. 2018.
Eating disorders consist of two main types: anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. The third type is referred to as EDNOS ("eating disorders not otherwise specified"). Binge eating disorder is classified as a type of EDNOS.
Eating disorders commonly arise during adolescence or early adulthood. In rare cases, they may emerge during childhood or later in one's adult life. Females are significantly more likely than males to develop an eating disorder, although do account for a believed five to fifteen percent of patients with anorexia.
Eating Disorders. Yale University, oyc.yale.edu/sites/default/files/EatingDisorders.pdf. Accessed 12 Jan. 2018.
Above is a video posted by Osmosis, a Youtube channel whose goal is to deep explanations for a variety of medical topics. This video does a great job of explaining what anorexia nervosa is as well as who is affected by this mental disorder.
"Anorexia Nervosa - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Pathology." Youtube, uploaded by Osmosis, 2 Aug. 2016, www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMbpExKKKVo. Accessed 12 Jan. 2018. Information from the American Addiction Centers show that 1.2% of the total American population suffers from anorexia nervosa. The majority of this statistic, however, is made up of women, who are believed to account for more than 90% of all anorexics.
While the exact causes of anorexia are unknown, many believe it is factors such as cultural beauty ideas, friends or family who exhibit the same behavior, personal trauma, stress, or depression, and genetics that can cause one to develop this disorder. Symptoms include brittle hair, skin, and nails, thinning bone structure, loss of muscle, weakness, exhaustion, lack of menstruation (females), digestive and waste elimination problems, heart problems, anemia, low blood pressure, and potential death. American Addiction Centers. "Anorexia Nervosa Facts and Statistics." Americanaddictioncenters.org, edited by American Addiction Centers, americanaddictioncenters.org/anorexia-treatment/facts-statistics/. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. Above is a video posted by Osmosis that explains bulimia nervosa and its effects. It also explains a few of the causes of the disorder and how it affects our youth.
"Bulimia Nervosa - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, & Pathology." Youtube, uploaded by Osmosis, 9 Aug. 2016, www.youtube.com/ watch?v=hk0moXO7W74. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018.
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anorexia nervosaThe Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services describes anorexia nervosa as a severe type of eating disorder in which people fiercely limit his or her's food intake to keep from gaining weight. This disorder is often characterized by unhealthy weight loss and a bitter fear of gaining weight. One who suffers from anorexia may believe he or she is overweight, even though they are of an average or under average weight.
Office on Women's Health. "Anorexia Nervosa." Womenshealth.gov, edited by Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/anorexia-nervosa. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. bulimia nervosaAccording to the New York State Office of Mental Health, bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder in which one frequently consumes large quantities of food before purging. The methods for purging include any of the following: forced vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, excessive exercise, or a mix of these practices.
As opposed to anorexia, those who suffer from bulimia usually have a normal or slightly above normal weight. However, both share a mutual fear of weight gain and desperately hope to lose weight. Both are troubled by their physical appearances. Symptoms of bulimia include sore throat, swollen salivary glands, worn tooth enamel, acid reflux, gastrointestinal problems, intestinal distress and irritation, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance. New York (State). Office of Mental Health; National Institute of Mental Health (U.S.). Eating Disorders: Facts About Eating Disorders and the Search For Solutions. Compiled by New York State Library, 2014. Digital Public Library of America, nysl.cloudapp.net/awweb/main.jsp?flag=collection&smd=1&cl=all_lib&lb_document_id=117683&tm=1516028827740& itype=advs&menu=on. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. According to Mirror Mirror, bulimia nervosa occurs in about 1.5% of females (4.7 million) and 0.5% of males (1.5 million) nationwide.
Mirror Mirror. "Statistics on Bulimia." Mirrormirror.org, www.mirror-mirror.org/bulimia/statistics-on-bulimia.htm. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. |
Mood Disorders
According to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, 1 in 10 American adults will suffer from a mood disorder in any given year. Mood disorders include 3 main illnesses: major depressive disorder, dysthymia, and bipolar disorder.
People with this type of mental illness typically have trouble with work, family, and social life. In extreme cases, they may have difficulty even just getting through the day. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Mood Disorders and Different Kinds of Depression. DBSA. dbsaalliance.org, DBSA, www.dbsalliance.org/site/DocServer/DBSA_Uni_Bipolar.v3.pdf?docID=2901. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. Information on Pyschguides.com shows that approximately 20.9 million Americans suffers from a mood disorder. While identifying what exactly causes this type of mental illness is difficult, most scientists and mental health professionals believe mood disorders are the result of a chemical imbalance.
"Mood Disorder Symptoms, Causes and Effects." Psychguides.com, Sober Media Group, www.psychguides.com/guides/mood-disorder-symptoms-causes-and-effect/. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. (Major Depressive Disorder) [is] not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. Just like you can’t “wish away” diabetes, heart disease or any other physical illness, you can’t make depression go away by trying to “snap out of it” or “pull yourself up by your boot straps.” qtd. in Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance bipolar disorderAccording to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, people diagnosed with bipolar disorder experience both extreme highs and extreme lows. The lows are referred to as bipolar depression, while the highs are called mania. Mental health professionals believe 2 to 5% of American adults will suffer from some form of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of bipolar depression are extremely similar to the symptoms of major depressive episodes. In the most serious cases of bipolar disorder, people experience mania, whose symptoms include:
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Above is a video posted by CrashCourse. This video (appropriately titled Depressive and Bipolar Disorders: Crash Course) gives a quick summary of the different types of mood disorders, and why it is important to understand the differences between them.
"Depressive and Bipolar Disorders: Crash Course Psychology #30." Youtube, uploaded by CrashCourse, 8 Sept. 2014, www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwMlHkWKDwM. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. major depressive disorderThe Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance refers to Major Depressive Disorder as a mental illness caused by a chemical imbalance of the brain. A believed 18 million Americans encounter a major depressive episode each year, and it has thus become the leading disability for Americans ages 15 to 44. For most people, it is a recurrent illness which, without treatment, can become incessant.
A major depressive disorder is comprised of various types of depression. Unipolar depression is when someone experiences a low, depressed for a limited period of time. Dysthymia is for people who experience a consistently depressed mood. Double depression is when people have both unipolar depression and dysthymia. Postpartum depression occurs after a woman gives birth, while seasonal affective disorder is a depression most commonly found during the winter months. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Mood Disorders and Different Kinds of Depression. DBSA. dbsaalliance.org, DBSA, www.dbsalliance.org/site/DocServer/DBSA_Uni_Bipolar.v3.pdf?docID=2901. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. The two most common types of bipolar disorder are bipolar I and bipolar II. In bipolar I, people have both bipolar depression and mania, while in bipolar II, people experience only a moderate mania known as hypomania. Hypomania is significantly less intense than regular mania, and some who have it may not even feel or appear impaired. In both illnesses, bipolar depression is experienced the most frequently, and is more likely to lead to suicidal thinking or actions.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Mood Disorders and Different Kinds of Depression. DBSA. dbsaalliance.org, DBSA, www.dbsalliance.org/site/DocServer/DBSA_Uni_Bipolar.v3.pdf?docID=2901. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. |
Personality Disorders
Above is a video from CrashCourse titled "Personality Disorders: Crash Course Psychology #34." The video provides a brief overview of the types of personality disorders and what makes them different than any other type of mental illness.
"Personality Disorders: Crash Course Psychology #34." Youtube, uploaded by CrashCourse, 14 Oct. 2014, www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E1JiDFxFGk. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. schizotypal personality disorderAs found on RN.com, schizotypal personality disorder is a Cluster A disorder in which a person has odd beliefs or fantasies. Many with this disorder believe to have a "sixth sense." People with this illness may have incoherent and enigmatic thinking or speech, and may foster behavior similar to that of one with paranoid personality disorder. People with this disorder typically have limited or no close relationships, and frequently experience discomfort in social situations.
The fantasies one with this disorder may have can lead to paranormal thinking and superstition. People with this disorder may experience brief psychotic episodes in response to stress. However, if this psychotic episode lasts, one is at risk for developing delusional disorder, brief psychotic disorder, schizophreniform disorder, or schizophrenia. Many with this illness also suffer from major depressive disorder. Approximately 3% of the general population has this disorder and it most commonly found in males. AMN Healthcare Education Services. Personality Disorders: Identification, Assessment, and Interventions. 2012. PDF, lms.rn.com/getpdf.php/2087.pdf. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. borderline personality disorderRN.com describes borderline personality disorder (BPD) as "a pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, affects, and marked impulsivity." This disorder usually begins in early adulthood and affects about 2% of the general population. People with this disorder tend to have strong reactions to real or anticipated abandonment which thus alters their behavior, cognition, self-image, and affect. They often times view the world as black and white. Many people with this disorder engage in self-mutilation or suicidal behavior. Instability and paranoia are also common.
Much like people with schizotypal personality disorder, people with BPD may short-term experience psychotic symptoms during stressful times. They may also battle severe self-doubt that keeps them from achieving their goals. This, combined with self-destructive tendencies, puts people with BPD at greater risk for suicide and morbidity. This disorder is commonly associated with substance abuse, mood and eating disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and other personality disorders. AMN Healthcare Education Services. Personality Disorders: Identification, Assessment, and Interventions. 2012. PDF, lms.rn.com/getpdf.php/2087.pdf. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. Individuals with borderline PD have difficulties with relationships. They may begin with a friendship or relationship in which they share information and emotions, and idealize others in an intense manner. This reaction can rapidly change to where they believe others do not value them, or are neglecting, punishing, or abandoning them." Qtd. in AMN Healthcare Education Services People with DPD are typically compliant, helpless, have low self-esteem and lack confidence. They are unable to act independently and fear being alone. This can cause problems later on, as people with this disorder are highly inclined to endure abuse at the hands of the person they are dependent on. Social relationships tend to be very limited for people with DPD, and as soon as one relationship fails, they are quick to start another one. This disorder is commonly associated with mood, adjustment, and anxiety disorders as well as avoidant, borderline, and histrionic personality disorders.
AMN Healthcare Education Services. Personality Disorders: Identification, Assessment, and Interventions. 2012. PDF, lms.rn.com/getpdf.php/2087.pdf. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. MayoClinic.org lists the symptoms of dependent personality disorder as the following:
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According to RN.com, roughly 9.1% of the United States has been formally diagnosed with a personality disorder. Personality disorders are defined as "a persistent pattern of internal experience and behavior which manifests in two or more of the areas of thinking, feeling, interpersonal relationships, and impulse control." There are 4 core features of personality disorders. These features include:
Mayoclinic.org also provides some information on the illness, as they reveal most personality disorders begin in adolescence or early adulthood.
Personality disorders are organized arranged to three different clusters: cluster A, B, and C. Cluster A is characterized by strange, erratic thinking and behavior. Cluster B is known for dramatic, hyper emotional, and unpredictable thinking and behavior. Lastly, cluster C is notorious for having anxious and panicky thinking and behavior. Mayo Clinic. "Personality Disorders." MayoClinic.Org, edited by Mayo Clinic,www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/personality-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20354463. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. According to MayoClinic.org, symptoms of this disorder include:
Above is a video from Psych2Go that explains what BPD is and what causes it. It also talks about the stigma surrounding BPD and personality disorders in general.
"Borderline Personality Disorder...What Is It?" Youtube, uploaded by Psych2Go, 6 Aug. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Dt9xJGPQBk. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. Mayoclinic.org lists the symptoms of BPD as the following:
dependent personality disorderAccording to RN.com, dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a cluster C personality disorder characterized by submissive and clingy behavior as well as an acute need to be taken care of by others. People with this disorder find everyday tasks and responsibilities difficult to perform. They require advice and assurance for nearly every life decision; however, they usually only seek the advice of one specific person. People with this disorder have an irrational fear of losing support and have a strong need to be liked by others. Subsequently, people who suffer from this disorder may avoid expressing anger or disappointment out of fear of losing support.
AMN Healthcare Education Services. Personality Disorders: Identification, Assessment, and Interventions. 2012. PDF, lms.rn.com/getpdf.php/2087.pdf. Accessed 15 Jan. 2018. Individuals with dependent PD demonstrate self-doubt and pessimism, criticizing themselves and may consistently demean themselves. They take criticism and disapproval as proof they are worthless, and may seek overprotection and domination from others." Qtd. in AMN Healthcare |
Psychotic Disorders
According to WebMd.com, psychotic disorders (also known as psychosis) are a group of illnesses that make it difficult for one to think clearly, communicate effectively, execute good judgement, understand reality, behave appropriately, and respond emotionally. In severe cases, people with a psychosis may have trouble stating in touch with reality and are unable to effectively handle everyday life.
"What Is a Psychotic Disorder?" WebMD, www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/guide/mental-health-psychotic-disorders#1. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. Information from Deakin University in Australia shows that while the exact cause of psychotic disorders remains a mystery, researchers believe there are a number of genetic, biological, and environmental factors that could cause one to develop a psychosis. These factors include things such as a family history of psychotic illness, the brain's sensitivity to dopamine, stress, and drug abuse.
Deakin University Australia. Psychotic Disorders. Deakin.edu.au, www.deakin.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/228320/psychotic-disorders.pdf.Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. Above is a video from CrashCourse that explains what schizophrenia is and its symptoms. It also discusses possible causes.
"Schizophrenia & Dissociative Disorders: Crash Course Psychology #32."Youtube, uploaded by CrashCourse, 29 Sept. 2014, www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxktavpRdzU&t=67s. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. Positive symptoms of schizophrenia include:
Schizophrenia. National Institute of Mental Health. NIMH.gov, National Institute of Mental Health, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/schizophrenia-basics/tr-15-3517_155669.pdf. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. Negative symptoms refer to social withdrawal, difficulty showing emotions, or difficulty functioning normally. People with negative symptoms may need help with everyday tasks." Qtd. in the National Institute of Mental Health The cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia include:
Although schizophrenia is a treatable illness, it is also considered one of the most stigmatized disorders because of its high association with homelessness and drug abuse. While it is not uncommon for someone with this disorder to have a drug problem, many treatment centers are working hard to provide the best care they can in order to treat both schizophrenia and any drug or alcohol related issues. Drug abuse is drastic for people with this disorder as it can increase their likelihood of developing another mental illness. In addition, it increases their risk of experiencing trauma, homelessness, and, in severe cases, may increase their risk of committing suicide.
Schizophrenia. National Institute of Mental Health. NIMH.gov, National Institute of Mental Health, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/schizophrenia-basics/tr-15-3517_155669.pdf. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. |
Above is a video from The Center for Health Care Services - Bexar County. This video does a good job of explaining psychosis and provides statistics and other factual information on the topic.
"What Is Psychosis?" Youtube, uploaded by The Center for Health Care Services - Bexar County, 10 Aug. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRGGxK3OpNc. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. schizophreniaAccording to the National Institute of Mental Health, schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that affects how one thinks, feels, and behave. People with this disorder often seem as though they have lost touch with reality. They may hear voices no one else can hear or believe other people are trying to hurt them.
Schizophrenia is more common in men than it is in women, and symptoms usually occur between the ages of 16 and 30. These symptoms are organized according to 3 categories: positive, negative, and cognitive. Schizophrenia. National Institute of Mental Health. NIMH.gov, National Institute of Mental Health, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/schizophrenia-basics/tr-15-3517_155669.pdf. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. Positive symptoms are psychotic experiences that are not generally seen in healthy people. People with these symptoms are sometimes unable to tell what’s real from what is imagined. These symptoms can be severe, and at other times, hardly noticeable." Qtd. in the National Institute of Mental Health The negative symptoms of schizophrenia include:
Cognitive symptoms are not easy to see, but they can make it hard for people to have a job or take care of themselves. Often, these symptoms are detected only when specific tests are performed. " Qtd. in the National Institute of Mental Health To learn more about the stigma surrounding mental illness, please click on the button below.
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Addiction and Impulse Disorders
According to the Mental Health Association, impulse control disorders are a mental illness characterized by a lack of self-control and the inability to resist an impulse no matter how dangerous it may be. A person with one these disorders typically experiences some level of suspense and arousal prior to committing the act. This usually followed by relief after the act has been committed. A person with this disorder may or may not feel remorse following his or her's episode.
Some causes of these disorders include substance abuse, a traumatic brain injury, and neurobiological dysfunction. Mental Health Association NSW Inc. Impulse Control Disorders. www.islhd.health.nsw.gov.au/Carer_Program/Mental_Health/Illness_and_Disorder/ImpulseControlDisorders.pdf. Accessed 17 Jan. 2018. addictive disordersAccording to psychiatry.org, addiction is an illness that is illustrated by uncontrollable substance use despite harmful consequences. People with an addiction disorder are typically hooked to alcohol or another type of drug to the point that it rules their lives.
People with this disorder typically have distorted thinking, behavior and body functions. Many of them exercise impaired judgement and decision making as a result. Alcoholism is one of the most predominant addictive disorders in the United States. American Psychiatric Association. "What Is Addiction?" Psychiatry.org, edited by American Psychiatric Association, www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/addiction/what-is-addiction. Accessed 17 Jan. 2018. |
The following is a video posted by Osmosis that explains what impulsive disorders are. It also explains the types of impulsive disorders.
"Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders." Youtube, uploaded by Osmosis, 4 Oct. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=XH46Nm1QOcg. Accessed 16 Jan. 2018. |