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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Filed Under: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder by admin — 1 Comment
March 11, 2011

OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD)

Symptoms and Treatment of Compulsive Behavior and Obsessive Thoughts

It’s normal, on occasion, to go back and double-check that the iron is unplugged or your car is locked. But in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors become so excessive that they interfere with daily life. And no matter what you do, you can’t seem to shake them. If you or someone you love has obsessive-compulsive disorder, you may feel isolated and helpless, but there is help available. Many treatments and self-help strategies can reduce the symptoms of OCD.

WHAT IS OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD)? John’s Story

John is a 42-year-old accountant whose obsessive “checking” behaviors are gradually taking up more and more of his time. He spends at least an hour every morning checking and rechecking that the windows are latched, the security alarm is set, and the front door is locked. At work, John goes over his clients’ books again and again, out of fear that he’s missed something or made a mathematical error. Consequently, his productivity has plummeted. Lately, John has also started to worry about his wife’s safety, calling her every three hours to see if she’s okay. He’s afraid that if he misses a call, something bad will happen to her. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts and repetitive, ritualized behaviors you feel compelled to perform. If you have OCD, you probably recognize that your obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are irrational – but even so, you feel unable to resist them and break free.Like a needle getting stuck on an old record, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes the brain to get stuck on a particular thought or urge. For example, you may check the stove twenty times to make sure it’s really turned off, you’re your hands until they’re scrubbed raw, or drive around for hours to make sure that the bump you heard while driving wasn’t a person you ran over.

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HOW TO SELF-MANAGE BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

Filed Under: How to self-manage Borderline Personality Disorder by admin — 12 Comments
March 4, 2011

A GUIDE TO TH SELF-MANAGEMENT OF BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER


Education and Support

1 ) Educate yourself on borderline personality disorder. One way to do this is to consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV TR) and look under “Personality Disorders.” You can find this volume in the library, in bookstores or online. There are also some books that can help; one example is “Don’t Let Your Emotions Run Your Life” by Scott Spradlin.

2 ) Seek support. It is imperative to have assistance and encouragement from those who understand and can guide you. Call your local branch of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, or a community mental-health center.

3 ) Seek therapy. Psychotherapeutic interventions, such as dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), have been found to be very effective in teaching the management of symptoms and emotions.

4 ) Seek medical intervention. Medications such as antidepressants or for anxiety can be very helpful, especially in conjunction with therapy.

5 ) Practice deep breathing. Breathing is an important part of relaxing. Breathe deeply in through your nose and out through your mouth.

6 ) Practice mindfulness. Be aware of what your are feeling. Don’t try to deny it or stop it; just accept it.

7 ) Call a friend. You do not have to be alone. If you do not know who to call, there are hotlines provided on this website.

8 )  Pray or meditate. If you have a faith, it can be very comforting to pray. If not, meditating may be helpful.

9 ) Do something to pamper yourself. This may include taking a hot bath, drinking some hot chocolate or going for a walk.

10 ) Come up with your own coping list. When you are anxious or feeling empty or panicked, take out the list and try to do at least one, if not more, of the items on it.

 

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BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

Filed Under: Borderline Personality Disorder by admin — 3 Comments
March 4, 2011

BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

The main feature of borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a pervasive pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image and emotions. People with borderline personality disorder are also usually very impulsive.
This disorder occurs in most by early adulthood. The unstable pattern of interacting with others has persisted for years and is usually closely related to the person’s self-image and early social interactions. The pattern is present in a variety of settings (e.g., not just at work or home) and often is accompanied by a similar lability (fluctuating back and forth, sometimes in a quick manner) in a person’s emotions and feelings. Relationships and the person’s emotion may often be characterized as being shallow.
A person with this disorder will also often exhibit impulsive behaviors and have a majority of the following symptoms:

Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment

A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships characterized by alternating between extremes of idealization and devaluation

Identity disturbance, such as a significant and persistent unstable self-image or sense of self

Impulsivity in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g., spending, sex, substance abuse, reckless driving, binge eating)

Recurrent suicidal behavior, gestures, or threats, or self-mutilating behavior

Emotional instability due to significant reactivity of mood (e.g., intense episodic dysphoria, irritability, or anxiety usually lasting a few hours and only rarely more than a few days)

Chronic feelings of emptiness

Inappropriate, intense anger or difficulty controlling anger (e.g., frequent displays of temper, constant anger, recurrent physical fights)

Transient, stress-related paranoid thoughts or severe dissociative symptoms

As with all personality disorders, the person must be at least 18 years old before they can be diagnosed with it. Borderline personality disorder is more prevalent in females (75 percent of diagnoses made are in females). It is thought that borderline personality disorder affects approximately 2 percent of the general population. Like most personality disorders, borderline personality disorder typically will decrease in intensity with age, with many people experiencing few of the most extreme symptoms by the time they are in the 40s or 50s.

 

DETAILS ABOUT BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER SYMPTOMS

Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment.

The perception of impending separation or rejection, or the loss of external structure, can lead to profound changes in self-image, emotion, thinking and behavior. Someone with borderline personality disorder will be very sensitive to things happening around them in their environment. They experience intense abandonment fears and inappropriate anger, even when faced with a realistic separation or when there are unavoidable changes in plans. For instance, becoming very angry with someone for being a few minutes late or having to cancel a lunch date. People with borderline personality disorder may believe that this abandonment implies that they are “bad.” These abandonment fears are related to an intolerance of being alone and a need to have other people with them. Their frantic efforts to avoid abandonment may include impulsive actions such as self-mutilating or suicidal behaviors.
Unstable and intense relationships.

People with borderline personality disorder may idealize potential caregivers or lovers at the first or second meeting, demand to spend a lot of time together, and share the most intimate details early in a relationship. However, they may switch quickly from idealizing other people to devaluing them, feeling that the other person does not care enough, does not give enough, is not “there” enough. These individuals can empathize with and nurture other people, but only with the expectation that the other person will “be there” in return to meet their own needs on demand. These individuals are prone to sudden and dramatic shifts in their view of others, who may alternately be seen as beneficient supports or as cruelly punitive. Such shifts other reflect disillusionment with a caregiver whose nurturing qualities had been idealized or whose rejection or abandonment is expected.
Identity disturbance.

There are sudden and dramatic shifts in self-image, characterized by shifting goals, values and vocational aspirations. There may be sudden changes in opinions and plans about career, sexual identity, values and types of friends. These individuals may suddenly change from the role of a needy supplicant for help to a righteous avenger of past mistreatment. Although they usually have a self-image that is based on being bad or evil, individuals with borderline personality disorder may at times have feelings that they do not exist at all. Such experiences usually occur in situations in which the individual feels a lack of a meaningful relationship, nurturing and support. These individuals may show worse performance in unstructured work or school situations.

HOW IS BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER DIAGNOSED

Personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder are typically diagnosed by a trained mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Family physicians and general practitioners are generally not trained or well-equipped to make this type of psychological diagnosis. So while you can initially consult a family physician about this problem, they should refer you to a mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment. There are no laboratory, blood or genetic tests that are used to diagnose borderline personality disorder.

Many people with borderline personality disorder don’t seek out treatment. People with personality disorders, in general, do not often seek out treatment until the disorder starts to significantly interfere or otherwise impact a person’s life. This most often happens when a person’s coping resources are stretched too thin to deal with stress or other life events.
A diagnosis for borderline personality disorder is made by a mental health professional comparing your symptoms and life history with those listed here. They will make a determination whether your symptoms meet the criteria necessary for a personality disorder diagnosis.

 

CAUSES OF BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

Researchers today don’t know what causes borderline personality disorder. There are many theories, however, about the possible causes of borderline personality disorder. Most professionals subscribe to a biopsychosocial model of causation — that is, the causes of are likely due to biological and genetic factors, social factors (such as how a person interacts in their early development with their family and friends and other children), and psychological factors (the individual’s personality and temperament, shaped by their environment and learned coping skills to deal with stress). This suggests that no single factor is responsible — rather, it is the complex and likely intertwined nature of all three factors that are important. If a person has this personality disorder, research suggests that there is a slightly increased risk for this disorder to be “passed down” to their children.

 

TREATMENT OF BORDERLINE PERSONAILTY DISORDER

Treatment of borderline personality disorder typically involves long-term psychotherapy with a therapist that has experience in treating this kind of personality disorder. Medications may also be prescribed to help with specific troubling and debilitating symptoms.

 

 

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BIOPOLAR

Filed Under: Biopolar by admin — 63 Comments
March 3, 2011

UNDERSTANDING BIOPOLAR DISORDER

SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENT OF MANIC DEPRESSION

We all have our ups and downs, our “off” days and our “on” days, but if you’re suffering from bipolar disorder, these peaks and valleys are more severe. The symptoms of bipolar disorder can hurt your job and school performance, damage your relationships, and disrupt your daily life. And although bipolar disorder is treatable, many people don’t recognize the warning signs and get the help they need. Since bipolar disorder tends to worsen without treatment, it’s important to learn what the symptoms look like. Recognizing the problem is the first step to getting it under control.

WHAT IS BIOPOLAR DISORDERr?

Bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) causes serious shifts in mood, energy, thinking, and behavior–from the highs of mania on one extreme, to the lows of depression on the other. More than just a fleeting good or bad mood, the cycles of bipolar disorder last for days, weeks, or months. And unlike ordinary mood swings, the mood changes of bipolar disorder are so intense that they interfere with your ability to function.

During a manic episode, a person might impulsively quit a job, charge up huge amounts on credit cards, or feel rested after sleeping two hours. During a depressive episode, the same person might be too tired to get out of bed and full of self-loathing and hopelessness over being unemployed and in debt.

The causes of bipolar disorder aren’t completely understood, but it often runs in families. The first manic or depressive episode of bipolar disorder usually occurs in the teenage years or early adulthood. The symptoms can be subtle and confusing, so many people with bipolar disorder are overlooked or misdiagnosed–resulting in unnecessary suffering. But with proper treatment and support, you can lead a rich and fulfilling life.

MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT BIOPOLAR DISORDER

Myth: People with bipolar disorder can’t get better or lead a normal life.

Fact: Many people with bipolar disorder have successful careers, happy family lives, and satisfying relationships. Living with bipolar disorder is challenging. But with treatment, healthy coping skills, and a solid support system, you can live fully while managing your symptoms.

Myth: PEOPLE WITH BIOPOLAR DISORDER SWING BACK AND FOURTH BETWEEN MANIA AND DEPRESSION.

Fact: Some people alternate between extreme episodes of mania and depression, but most are depressed more often than they are manic. Mania may also be so mild that it goes unrecognized. People with bipolar disorder can also go for long stretches without symptoms.

MYTH: BIOPOLAR DISORDER ONLY AFFECTS MOOD.

Fact: Bipolar disorder also affects your energy level, judgment, memory, concentration, appetite, sleep patterns, sex drive, and self-esteem. Additionally, bipolar disorder has been linked to anxiety, substance abuse, and health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, migraines, and high blood pressure.

MYTH: Aside from taking medication, there is nothing you can do to control bipolar disorder.

Fact: While medication is the foundation of bipolar disorder treatment, therapy and self-help strategies also play important roles. You can help control your symptoms by exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating right, monitoring your moods, keeping stress to a minimum, and surrounding yourself with supportive people.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BIOPOLAR DISORDER

Bipolar disorder can look very different in different people. The symptoms vary widely in their pattern, severity, and frequency. Some people are more prone to either mania or depression, while others alternate equally between the two types of episodes. Some have frequent mood disruptions, while others experience only a few over a lifetime.
There are four types of mood episodes in bipolar disorder:mania, hypomania, depression, and mixed episodes. Each type of bipolar disorder mood episode has a unique set of symptoms.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MANIA

In the manic phase of bipolar disorder, feelings of heightened energy, creativity, and euphoria are common. People experiencing a manic episode often talk a mile a minute, sleep very little, and are hyperactive. They may also feel like they’re all-powerful, invincible, or destined for greatness.
But while mania feels good at first, it has a tendency to spiral out of control. People often behave recklessly during a manic episode: gambling away savings, engaging in inappropriate sexual activity, or making foolish business investments, for example. They may also become angry, irritable, and aggressive–picking fights, lashing out when others don’t go along with their plans, and blaming anyone who criticizes their behavior. Some people even become delusional or start hearing voices.

HYPOMANIA SYMPTOMS

Hypomania is a less severe form of mania. People in a hypomanic state feel euphoric, energetic, and productive, but they are able to carry on with their day-to-day lives and they never lose touch with reality. To others, it may seem as if people with hypomania are merely in an unusually good mood. However, hypomania can result in bad decisions that harm relationships, careers, and reputations. In addition, hypomania often escalates to full-blown mania or is followed by a major depressive episode.

COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MANIA INCLUDE:

Feeling unusually “high” and optimistic OR extremely irritable
Unrealistic, grandiose beliefs about one’s abilities or powers
Sleeping very little, but feeling extremely energetic
Talking so rapidly that others can’t keep up
Racing thoughts; jumping quickly from one idea to the next
Highly distractible, unable to concentrate
Impaired judgment and impulsiveness
Acting recklessly without thinking about the consequences
Delusions and hallucinations (in severe cases)
 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BIOPOLAR DEPRESSION

In the past, bipolar depression was lumped in with regular depression. But a growing body of research suggests that there are significant differences between the two, especially when it comes to recommended treatments. Most people with bipolar depression are not helped by antidepressants. In fact, there is a risk that antidepressants can make bipolar disorder worse–triggering mania or hypomania, causing rapid cycling between mood states, or interfering with other mood stabilizing drugs.
Despite many similarities, certain symptoms are more common in bipolar depression than in regular depression. For example, bipolar depression is more likely to involve irritability, guilt, unpredictable mood swings, and feelings of restlessness. People with bipolar depression also tend to move and speak slowly, sleep a lot, and gain weight. In addition, they are more likely to develop psychotic depression–a condition in which they’ve lost contact with reality–and to experience major disability in work and social functioning.
Common symptoms of bipolar depression include:
Feeling hopeless, sad, or empty.
Irritability
Inability to experience pleasure
Fatigue or loss of energy
Physical and mental sluggishness
Appetite or weight changes
Sleep problems
Concentration and memory problems
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Thoughts of death or suicide

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MIXED EPISODE

A mixed episode of bipolar disorder features symptoms of both mania or hypomania and depression. Common signs of a mixed episode include depression combined with agitation, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, distractibility, and racing thoughts. This combination of high energy and low mood makes for a particularly high risk of suicide.

THE DIFFERENT FACES OF BIOPOLAR DISORDER

Bipolar I Disorder (mania or a mixed episode) – The classic manic-depressive form of the illness, characterized by at least one manic episode or mixed episode. Usually—but not always—Bipolar I Disorder also involves at least one episode of depression.

Bipolar II Disorder (hypomania and depression) – In Bipolar II disorder, the person doesn’t experience full-blown manic episodes. Instead, the illness involves episodes of hypomania and severe depression.
Cyclothymia (hypomania and mild depression) – Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolar disorder. It consists of cyclical mood swings. However, the symptoms are less severe than full-blown mania or depression.

TREATMENT FOR BIOPOLAR DISORDER

If you spot the symptoms of bipolar depression in yourself or someone else, don’t wait to get help. Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away; in fact, it will almost certainly get worse. Living with untreated bipolar disorder can lead to problems in everything from your career to your relationships to your health. Diagnosing the problem as early as possible and getting into treatment can help prevent these complications. 
If you’re reluctant to seek treatment because you like the way you feel when you’re manic, remember that the energy and euphoria come with a price. Mania and hypomania often turn destructive, hurting you and the people around you.

BASICS OF BIOPOLAR DISORDER TREATMENT

Bipolar disorder requires long-term treatment. Since bipolar disorder is a chronic, relapsing illness, it’s important to continue treatment even when you’re feeling better. Most people with bipolar disorder need medication to prevent new episodes and stay symptom-free.

There is more to treatment than medication. Medication alone is usually not enough to fully control the symptoms of bipolar disorder. The most effective treatment strategy for bipolar disorder involves a combination of medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support.

It’s best to work with an experienced psychiatrist. Bipolar disorder is a complex condition. Diagnosis can be tricky and treatment is often difficult. For safety reasons, medication should be closely monitored. A psychiatrist who is skilled in bipolar disorder treatment can help you navigate these twists and turns.

SELP-HELP FOR BIOPOLAR DISORDER

While dealing with bipolar disorder isn’t always easy, it doesn’t have to run your life. But in order to successfully manage bipolar disorder, you have to make smart choices. Your lifestyle and daily habits have a significant impact on your moods. Read on for ways to help yourself:

Get educated. Learn as much as you can about bipolar disorder. The more you know, the better you’ll be at assisting your own recovery.

Keep stress in check. Avoid high-stress situations, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and try relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.

Seek support. It’s important to have people you can turn to for help and encouragement. Try joining a support group or talking to a trusted friend.

Make healthy choices. Healthy sleeping, eating, and exercising habits can help stabilize your moods. Keeping a regular sleep schedule is particularly important.

Monitor your moods. Keep track of your symptoms and watch for signs that your moods are swinging out of control so you can stop the problem before it starts.

BIOPOLAR DISORDER AND SUICIDE

The depressive phase of bipolar disorder is often very severe, and suicide is a major risk factor. In fact, people suffering from bipolar disorder are more likely to attempt suicide than those suffering from regular depression. Furthermore, their suicide attempts tend to be more lethal.
The risk of suicide is even higher in people with bipolar disorder who have frequent depressive episodes, mixed episodes, a history of alcohol or drug abuse, a family history of suicide, or an early onset of the disease.

The warning signs of suicide include:
Talking about death, self-harm, or suicide
Feeling hopeless or helpless
Feeling worthless or like a burden to others
Acting recklessly, as if one has a “death wish”
Putting affairs in order or saying goodbye
Seeking out weapons or pills that could be used to commit suicide

IMPORTANT

It’s very important to take any thoughts or talk of suicide seriously. If you or someone you care about is suicidal, contact any one of these contact details:

Befrienders South Africa
18 Klerck Avenue
Brandwag
(PO Box 29874, Danhof, 9310)
9301
Bloemfontein
Hotline: 051 444 5691
Website: minotaur.marques.co.za/befrienders-sa/main.htm
E-mail Helpline: befriend@iafrica.com

Befrienders Botshabelo
Contact by: Face to Face – Phone
Hotline: + 27 (0) 51 532 1100
Hours:
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri: 08:00 – 05:00
Sat: 08:00 – 02:00
Befrienders Setshabelo
PO Box 21115
9306

HEIDEDAL
Contact by: Face to Face
Hotline: 051 430 3555
Hours:
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri: 09:00 – 05:00
Sat: 09:00 – 02:00

Befrienders Kwa Nobuhle
Kwa Nobuhle
Hotline: +27 (0) 41 977 3003
Befrienders Mitchell’s Plain
PO Box 219
7789

MITCHELL’S PLAIN
Hotline: +27 (0) 21 371 1481
Befrienders Uitenhage
Uitenhage
Hotline: +27 (0) 41 922 0068
Befrienders Umkomaas
PO Box 10447
4170

UMKOMAAS
Hotline: +27 (0) 39 979 5741
Befrienders Bloemfontein
18 Klerck Avenue
Brandwag
(PO Box 29874, Danhof, 9310)
9301

BLOEMFONTEIN
Contact by: Face to Face – Phone – Letter:
Hotline: 051 444 5000
E-mail Helpline: befrienders@wsinet.co.za
24 Hour service:
Lifeline Southern Africa
10th Floor, North City House
Cnr Melle & Jorrisen Street
Fraamfontein

Johannesburg
2001
Contact by: – Phone
Hotline: 0861 322 322
Website: lifeline.org.za
24 Hour service:

BIOPOLAR DISORDER CAUSES AND TRIGGERS

Bipolar disorder has no single cause. It appears that certain people are genetically predisposed to bipolar disorder. Yet not everyone with an inherited vulnerability develops the illness, indicating that genes are not the only cause. Some brain imaging studies show physical changes in the brains of people with bipolar disorder. Other research points to neurotransmitter imbalances, abnormal thyroid function, circadian rhythm disturbances, and high levels of the stress hormone cortisol. 

External environmental and psychological factors are also believed to be involved in the development of bipolar disorder.
These external factors are called triggers. Triggers can set off new episodes of mania or depression or make existing symptoms worse. However, many bipolar disorder episodes occur without an obvious trigger.

STRESS – Stressful life events can trigger bipolar disorder in someone with a genetic vulnerability. These events tend to involve drastic or sudden changes–either good or bad–such as getting married, going away to college, losing a loved one, getting fired, or moving.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE – While substance abuse doesn’t cause bipolar disorder, it can bring on an episode and worsen the course of the disease. Drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, and amphetamines can trigger mania, while alcohol and tranquilizers can trigger depression.

MEDICATION – Certain medications, most notably antidepressant drugs, can trigger mania. Other drugs that can cause mania include over-the-counter cold medicine, appetite suppressants, caffeine, corticosteroids, and thyroid medication.

SEASONAL CHANGES – Episodes of mania and depression often follow a seasonal pattern. Manic episodes are more common during the summer, and depressive episodes more common during the fall, winter, and spring.

SLEEP DEPRIVATION – Loss of sleep—even as little as skipping a few hours of rest—can trigger an episode of mania.

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SCHIZOPHRENIA

Filed Under: Schizophrenia by admin — 10 Comments
March 3, 2011

A GUIDE TO THE SIGNS, SYMPTOMS, AND CAUSES

WHAT IS SCHIZOPHRENIA?

Schizophrenia is a challenging disorder that makes it difficult to distinguish between what is real and unreal, think clearly, manage emotions, and relate to others. These obstacles can get in the way of your ability to function normally and take care of yourself. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t hope.
The truth is, schizophrenia can be successfully managed. The first step is identifying the signs and symptoms. The second step is seeking help without delay. The third is sticking with treatment. With the right treatment and support from family, friends, and health professionals, a person with schizophrenia can lead a happy, fulfilling life.

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT SCHIZOPHRENIA

MYTH: Schizophrenia refers to a “split personality” or multiple personalities.

FACT: Multiple personality disorder is a different and much less common disorder than schizophrenia. People with schizophrenia do not have split personalities. Rather, they are “split off” from reality.

MYTH: Schizophrenia is a rare condition.

FACT: Schizophrenia is not rare; the lifetime risk of developing schizophrenia is widely accepted to be around 1 in 100.

MYTH: People with schizophrenia are dangerous.

FACT: Although the delusional thoughts and hallucinations of schizophrenia sometimes lead to violent behavior, most people with schizophrenia are neither violent nor a danger to others.

MYTH: People with schizophrenia can’t be helped.

FACT: While long-term treatment may be required, the outlook for schizophrenia is not hopeless. When treated properly, many people with schizophrenia are able to enjoy life and function within their families and communities.

EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

In some people, schizophrenia appears suddenly and without warning. But for most, it comes on slowly, with subtle warning signs and a gradual decline in functioning long before the first severe episode. Many friends and family members of people with schizophrenia report knowing early on that something was wrong with their loved one, they just didn’t know what.

In this early phase, people with schizophrenia often seem eccentric, unmotivated, emotionless, and reclusive. They isolate themselves, start neglecting their appearance, say peculiar things, and show a general indifference to life. They may abandon hobbies and activities, and their performance at work or school deteriorates.

THE MOST COMMON EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA INCLUDE:

Social withdrawal
Hostility or suspiciousness
Deterioration of personal hygiene
Flat, expressionless gaze
Inability to cry or express joy
Inappropriate laughter or crying
Depression
Oversleeping or insomnia
Odd or irrational statements
Forgetful; unable to concentrate
Extreme reaction to criticism
Strange use of words or way of speaking

While these warning signs can result from a number of problems—not just schizophrenia—they are cause for concern. When out-of-the-ordinary behavior is causing problems in your life or the life of a loved one, seek medical advice. If schizophrenia or another mental problem is the cause, treatment will help.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

There are five types of symptoms characteristic of schizophrenia: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized behavior, and the so-called “negative” symptoms.
However, the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia vary dramatically from person to person, both in pattern and severity. Not every person with schizophrenia will have all symptoms, and the symptoms of schizophrenia may also change over time.

DELUSIONS

A delusion is a firmly-held idea that a person has despite clear and obvious evidence that it isn’t true. Delusions are extremely common in schizophrenia, occurring in more than 90% of those who have the disorder. Often, these delusions involve illogical or bizarre ideas or fantasies. Common schizophrenic delusions include:

DELUSIONS OF PERSECUTION – Belief that others, often a vague “they,” are out to get him or her. These persecutory delusions often involve bizarre ideas and plots (e.g. “Martians are trying to poison me with radioactive particles delivered through my tap water”).

DELUSIONS OF REFERENCE – A neutral environmental event is believed to have a special and personal meaning. For example, a person with schizophrenia might believe a billboard or a person on TV is sending a message meant specifically for them.

DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR – Belief that one is a famous or important figure, such as Jesus Christ or Napolean. Alternately, delusions of grandeur may involve the belief that one has unusual powers that no one else has (e.g. the ability to fly).

DELUSIONS OF CONTROL – Belief that one’s thoughts or actions are being controlled by outside, alien forces. Common delusions of control include thought broadcasting (“My private thoughts are being transmitted to others”), thought insertion (“Someone is planting thoughts in my head”), and thought withdrawal (“The CIA is robbing me of my thoughts”).

HALLUCINATIONS

Hallucinations are sounds or other sensations experienced as real when they exist only in the person’s mind. While hallucinations can involve any of the five senses, auditory hallucinations (e.g. hearing voices or some other sound) are most common in schizophrenia. Visual hallucinations are also relatively common. Research suggests that auditory hallucinations occur when people misinterpret their own inner self-talk as coming from an outside source.
Schizophrenic hallucinations are usually meaningful to the person experiencing them. Many times, the voices are those of someone they know. Most commonly, the voices are critical, vulgar, or abusive. Hallucinations also tend to be worse when the person is alone.

DISORGANIZED SPEACH

Fragmented thinking is characteristic of schizophrenia. Externally, it can be observed in the way a person speaks. People with schizophrenia tend to have trouble concentrating and maintaining a train of thought. They may respond to queries with an unrelated answer, start sentences with one topic and end somewhere completely different, speak incoherently, or say illogical things.

COMMON SIGNS IN DISORGAINZED SPEACH OF SCHIZOPHRENIA INCLUDE:

LOOSE ASSOCIATIONS – Rapidly shifting from topic to topic, with no connection between one thought and the next.

NEOLOGISMS – Made-up words or phrases that only have meaning to the patient.

PERSEVERATION – Repetition of words and statements; saying the same thing over and over.

CLANG – Meaningless use of rhyming words (“I said the bread and read the shed and fed Ned at the head”).

DISORGANIZED BHAVIOR

Schizophrenia disrupts goal-directed activity, causing impairments in a person’s ability to take care of him or herself, work, and interact with others. Disorganized behavior appears as:

A decline in overall daily functioning

Unpredictable or inappropriate emotional responses

Behaviors that appear bizarre and have no purpose

Lack of inhibition and impulse control.

NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS

The negative symptoms of schizophrenia refer to the absence of normal behaviors found in healthy individuals. Important negative symptoms of schizophrenia include:

FLATTENED OR BLUNTED EFFECT – Lack of emotional expression, including a flat voice, lack of eye contact, and blank or restricted facial expressions.

AVOLITION – Lack of interest or enthusiasm; no ability to pursue goal-driven activities.

CATATONIA– Apparent unawareness of the environment; near total absence of motion and speech; aimless body movement and bizarre postures; lack of self-care.

ALOGIA – Difficulties with speech; inability to carry a conversation; short and sometimes disconnected replies to questions; lessening of fluency.

“POSITIVE” SYMPTOMS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

In contrast to the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, which refer to normal behaviors that are absent, positive symptoms refer to abnormal behaviors that are present. Delusions, hallucinations,
disorganized speech, and disorganized behavior are all positive symptoms of schizophrenia.

TYPES OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

There are three major subtypes of schizophrenia, each classified by their most prominent symptom:

paranoid schizophrenia

disorganized schizophrenia

catatonic schizophrenia

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PARANOID SCHIZOPHRENIA

The defining feature of paranoid schizophrenia is absurd or suspicious ideas and beliefs. These ideas typically revolve around a coherent, organized theme or “story” that remains consistent over time. Delusions of persecution are the most frequent theme, however delusions of grandeur are also common.
People with paranoid schizophrenia show a history of increasing paranoia and difficulties in their relationships. They tend to function better than individuals with other schizophrenic subtypes. In contrast, their thinking and behavior is less disordered and their long-term prognosis is better.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DISORGANIZED SCHIZOPHRENIA

Disorganized schizophrenia generally appears at an earlier age than other types of schizophrenia. Its onset is gradual, rather than abrupt, with the person gradually retreating into his or her fantasies.
The distinguishing characteristics of this subtype are disorganized speech, disorganized behavior, and blunted or inappropriate emotions. People with disorganized schizophrenia also have trouble taking care of themselves, and may be unable to perform simple tasks such as bathing or feeding themselves.
The symptoms of disorganized schizophrenia include:

Impaired communication skills

Incomprehensible or illogical speech

Inappropriate reactions (e.g. laughing at a funeral)

Emotional indifference

Infantile behavior (baby talk, giggling)

Peculiar facial expressions and mannerisms

People with disorganized schizophrenia sometimes suffer from hallucinations and delusions, but unlike the paranoid subtype, their fantasies aren’t consistent or organized.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CATATONIC SCHIZOPHRENIA

The hallmark of catanoic schizophrenia is a disturbance in movement: either a decrease in motor activity, reflecting a stuporous state, or an increase in motor activity, reflecting an excited state.

Stuporous motor signs. The stuporous state reflects a dramatic reduction in activity. The person often ceases all voluntary movement and speech, and may be extremely resistant to any change in his or her position, even to the point of holding an awkward, uncomfortable position for hours.

Excited motor signs. Sometimes, people with catatonic schizophrenia pass suddenly from a state of stupor to a state of extreme excitement. During this frenzied episode, they may shout, talk rapidly, pace back and forth, or act out in violence—either toward themselves or others.

People with catatonic schizophrenia can be highly suggestible. They may automatically obey commands, imitate the actions of others, or mimic what others say.

CAUSES OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

The causes of schizophrenia are not fully known. However, it appears that schizophrenia usually results from a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors.

GENETIC CAUSES IF SCHIZOPHRENIA

Schizophrenia has a strong hereditary component. Individuals with a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) who has schizophrenia have a 10 percent chance of developing the disorder, as opposed to the 1 percent chance of the general population.

But schizophrenia is only influenced by genetics, not determined by it. While schizophrenia runs in families, about 60% of schizophrenics have no family members with the disorder. Furthermore, individuals who are genetically predisposed to schizophrenia don’t always develop the disease, which shows that biology is not destiny.

ENVIROMENTAL CAUSES OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

Twin and adoption studies suggest that inherited genes make a person vulnerable to schizophrenia and then environmental factors act on this vulnerability to trigger the disorder.
As for the environmental factors involved, more and more research is pointing to stress, either during pregnancy or at a later stage of development. High levels of stress are believed to trigger schizophrenia by increasing the body’s production of the hormone cortisol.

Research points to several stress-inducing environmental factors that may be involved in schizophrenia, including:
Prenatal exposure to a viral infection
Low oxygen levels during birth (from prolonged labor or premature birth)
Exposure to a virus during infancy
Early parental loss or separation
Physical or sexual abuse in childhood

ABNORNAL BRAIN STRUCTURE

In addition to abnormal brain chemistry, abnormalities in brain structure may also play a role in schizophrenia. Enlarged brain ventricles are seen in some schizophrenics, indicating a deficit in the volume of brain tissue. There is also evidence of abnormally low activity in the frontal lobe, the area of the brain responsible for planning, reasoning, and decision-making.

Some studies also suggest that abnormalities in the temporal lobes, hippocampus, and amygdala are connected to schizophrenia’s positive symptoms. But despite the evidence of brain abnormalities, it is highly unlikely that schizophrenia is the result of any one problem in any one region of the brain.

EFFECTS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

When the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia are ignored or improperly treated, the effects can be devastating both to the individual with the disorder and those around him or her. Some of the possible effects of schizophrenia are:
Relationship problems. Relationships suffer because people with schizophrenia often withdraw and isolate themselves. Paranoia can also cause a person with schizophrenia to be suspicious of friends and family.

Disruption to normal daily activities. Schizophrenia causes significant disruptions to daily functioning, both because of social difficulties and because everyday tasks become hard, if not impossible to do. A schizophrenic person’s delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thoughts typically prevent him or her from doing normal things like bathing, eating, or running errands.

Alcohol and drug abuse. People with schizophrenia frequently develop problems with alcohol or drugs, which are often used in an attempt to self-medicate, or relieve symptoms. In addition, they may also be heavy smokers, a complicating situation as cigarette smoke can interfere with the effectiveness of medications prescribed for the disorder.
Increased suicide risk. People with schizophrenia have a high risk of attempting suicide. Any suicidal talk, threats, or gestures should be taken very seriously. People with schizophrenia are especially likely to commit suicide during psychotic episodes, during periods of depression, and in the first six months after they’ve started treatment.

HOPE FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA

Treatment options for schizophrenia are good, and the outlook for the disorder continues to improve. With medication, therapy, and a strong support network, many people with schizophrenia are able to control their symptoms, gain greater independence, and lead fulfilling lives.
If you think that someone close to you has schizophrenia, you can make a difference by showing your love and support and helping that person get properly evaluated and treated. To learn more, see the related articles below.

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Active Debate: Mental Illness vs Insanity

Filed Under: Active Debate: Mental Illness vs Insanity by admin — Leave a comment
March 3, 2011

Where do you draw the line between having a mental illness and being truly insane? Is “insanity” an old term doctors dont even use anymore, or is it like a mental illness only worse? What’s the rules on diagnosing someone with mental problems? Is Bipolar the same as insanity? What do you think?

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Mental Illness Basics

Filed Under: Introduction by admin — Leave a comment
March 3, 2011

INTRODUCTION

Mental illness is any disease or condition affecting the brain that influences the way a person thinks, feels, behaves and/or relates to others and to his or her surroundings. Although the symptoms of mental illness can range from mild to severe and are different depending on the type of mental illness, a person with an untreated mental illness often is unable to cope with life’s daily routines and demands.

WHAT CAUSES MENTAL ILLNESS?

Although the exact cause of most mental illnesses is not known, it is becoming clear through research that many of these conditions are caused by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors. One thing is for sure—mental illness is not the result of personal weakness or a character defect, and recovery from a mental illness is not simply a matter of will and self-discipline.

HEREDITY (GENETICS): Many mental illnesses run in families, suggesting that the illnesses may be passed on from parents to children through genes. Genes contain instructions for the function of each cell in the body and are responsible for how we look, act, think, etc. But, just because your mother or father may have a mental illness doesn’t mean you will have one. Hereditary just means that you are more likely to get the condition than if you didn’t have an affected family member. Experts believe that many mental conditions are linked to problems in multiple genes—not just one, as with many diseases—which is why a person inherits a susceptibility to a mental disorder, but doesn’t always develop the condition. The disorder itself occurs from the interaction of these genes and other factors—such as psychological trauma and environmental stressors—which can influence, or trigger, the illness in a person who has inherited a susceptibility to it.

BIOLOGY: Some mental illnesses have been linked to an abnormal balance of special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or are not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms of mental illness. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental conditions.

PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA: Some mental illnesses may be triggered by psychological trauma suffered as a child, such as severe emotional, physical or sexual abuse; a significant early loss, such as the loss of a parent; and neglect.

ENVIROMENTAL STRESSORS: Certain stressors—such as a death or divorce, a dysfunctional family life, changing jobs or schools and substance abuse—can trigger a disorder in a person who may be at risk for developing a mental illness.

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The Long Road To Enlightenment

Filed Under: My Philosophy by admin — 1 Comment
March 3, 2011

It is probably safe to say that everyone has their own distinct mental image when they are presented with the words “Mental Illness”. No doubt, the image brought to mind would likely reflect our past experiences and exposure to or with the mentally ill. It is human nature to call to mind the images that reflect what we personally have experienced. I’m sure that at one point or another, we have all encountered a mentally ill individual. What I consider mental illness may be totally different from what you may consider mental illness. Our perception is based on our exposure and experiences with the mentally ill. Perhaps, we ourselves have been diagnosed with a mental illness. Okay, now that really makes a difference in how we view the mentally ill, doesn’t it? Mental Illness can mean a thousand different things to a thousand different people. Some consider autism a mental illness and others consider it a chromosomal disorder. No doubt, the power of television has also had some impact on the mental images we immediately bring to mind, unless we have been touched personally by the real and anguished suffering of a loved one with mental illness. It is always different when it’s us or someone we love, isn’t it? We seem to be more willing to look at the person as an individual with a legitimate and understandable illness. The individuals we love are no longer considered damaged, but to have a real illness instead. We are much more willing to be more understanding and accepting of someone we know and love who is dealing with mental health issues. This is especially true if the individual in question is happens to be us. Now, we not only can be tolerant and understanding, but we expect the same respect from others.The wide range of mental ill diagnoses can vary from slight to extreme, as does the severity of the illness from one person to another. The good thing is that we as a society are finally starting to understand that it does not mean there are people staggering about with a huge red letter “M” for “mental” engraved in their forehead. It is sad to say that we are seeing more and more mentally ill people around us. But wait a minute, could it be possible that they have been around us all along and we are just now beginning to understand their struggle and pain? As a society, we are forever labeling those among us that for whatever reason are different. Usually when we come to know their circumstances, we develop a sincere and compassionate level of understanding. For example, we might consider a man who is acting aggressively defensive to be totally unstable until we learn that man is a combat veteran who literally hade to fight for his life. Then, we are able to lend compassion for the anguish and horrors that man lived through. Because we know the story, we accept that the behavior is normal for someone who has been through such an ordeal.

Thankfully, the face of mental illness has changed for society as a whole in the past few decades. The immediate and unfair labeling of individuals who are dealing with personal issues and illness has ceased. The change in attitude was long overdue. In fact, we tend to be more open minded about many other illness and issues that are openly discussed today. The adage that understanding leads to acceptance is very much true in regard to our overall willingness to consider the individual and not the behavior.Some of us may even recognize ourselves in the big picture of mental illness. Certainly, if we have been diagnosed with a mental illness like myself and we do not consider ourselves crazy, then we are more compassionate and understanding of those around us who share the same struggle.  Mental Illness can be a constant and disabling condition for many people. Then again, there are those who live day to day as best as they can, as normal as they can, despite their personal battle with depression, grief, compulsions or whatever they may be dealing with. Do we not recognize the struggle of others in ourselves? Most of us can relate to the pain and struggles of another in some way, therefore, we tend to be more tolerant and forgiving when they have a bad day or more likely, bad days.  The average individual who is dealing with a mental illness is more willing to share the condition in a more open forum. The shame has been removed from being diagnosed with a mental illness. The scope of mental illness covers a wide array of diagnoses, from the extremely severe to the common everyday anxiety attack that is experienced on a day to agonizing day basis for many. We have evolved into a more caring and considerate society. We have become more accepting of our own issues and struggles with life on a daily basis and the stress that comes with it. We recognize our own emotional wounds and needs. It is now socially acceptable to seek therapy without the fear of that big M (for “Mental”, remember?) being stamped between our eyes and subsequently being treated like we are spreading an incurable disease single handedly.That changes in attitude and the subsequent acceptance has occurred in regard to mental illness. The nature of the subject reflects many struggles in just as many people. Isn’t it about time for us to accept that we all have problems and unresolved pain in our lives? The mentally ill are not zombies who are walking beside us. The mentally ill are our brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers, – and us. We understand our own struggles, so it is all the more easy to accept that others are struggling as well. We have begun to care about what has caused the pain we see in ourselves and others, and to make an effort to understand why we feel the way we feel and why we act the way we act. Hopefully, in recognizing our own pain and our right to have it, no matter what the cause, we can recognize and accept it in others. For most of us, that is the hardest part, -the simple and plain accepting it. No shame, no guilt, and no big red M.

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A short description of a Mental Illness

Filed Under: Introduction by admin — 3 Comments
March 3, 2011

According to extensive research I conducted a Mental illness is a disorder that is characterized by disturbances in a person’s thought, emotions, or behavior. Mental illness refers to a wide variety of disorders, ranging from those that cause mild distress to those that impair a person’s ability to function in daily life such as my own personal case as a Schizophrenic sufferer. Many have tried to figure out the reasons for mental illnesses. All of these reasons have been looked at and thought of for thousands of years. The biological perspective views mental illness as a bodily process. Where as the psychological perspectives think the role of a person’s upbringing and environment are causes for mental illnesses. Researchers estimate that about 1% and 3% of people in South Africa suffer from some sort of common mental illness, such as depression and phobias. Major depression is a severe disorder. Symptoms include withdraw from family and/or friends, weight loss, sleeping problems, frequent crying, fleeing helpless, delusions, and hallucinations. This disease is usually diagnosed during adolescence; parents may notice grades dropping, poor self-image, troubled social relations, and suicidal acts. This disease may be fatal if the person becomes suicidal. Phobia is a disease where a person has an irrational fear of an object or situation. Some examples of phobias are fear of flight, cats, heights, enclosed spaces, reptiles, and the most severe is agoraphobia the fear to leave a safe place such as home. For example, if a person has agoraphobia, fear of leaving a safe place then that person’s life would be very isolated. If a person has the fear ailurophobia, fear of heights then that person can still live a normal life. This disease is not fatal unless the person becomes depressed because of being isolated. Schizophrenia is a disturbance that causes you to have misperceptions of reality; this may also cause hallucinations and delusions. Person may also show inadequate speech patterns, impaired social and occupational functioning, and bad personal hygiene. This disease is usually diagnosed at a young age. Family and/or friends may notice symptoms.

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