Symptoms
This may be noticed when someone jumps from topic to topic. This may be noticed when someone is “blocked,” in the middle of a thought, or when a person mixes up words. What symptom am I?
THOUGHT DISORDER
Some days I am great and on top of the world. Some days, I’m so great that no one is able to keep up with me, and I get agitated. Whatever goes up must come down. So, sometimes I feel so low I can’t get out of bed. What diagnosis am I?
Bipolar Disorder
What is stigma?
Wrong information that is based on someone's negative opinion.
Why is social support important?
To provide support. Help with early warning signs. Help with preventing relapses. (etc)
What medication treats psychotic symptoms?
Antipsychotic Medication
These are both two extreme symptoms that are also rare to see. Both have to do with a pattern of behavior that appear purposeless. What symptom am I?
DISORGANIZED or CATATONIC BEHAVIOR
It feels like “I’m dreaming, while I’m wide awake”. Sometimes, I see things that people tell me are not there. Sometimes I hear people, clear as day, but no one is with me. Symptoms have been present for 6 months. What diagnosis am I?
Schizophrenia
Sally was speaking with Bob.
Bob: I heard that someone with mental disorders are dangerous and hostile.
Sally: I was reading an article about how that is actually false information. Media sensationalizes the stories of people. And they misrepresent the who population of those with Mental Health needs.
This is an example of what way to combat stigma?
Correct misinformation without disclosing your story.
How can you build up your social support?
1. Rebuild/ maintain old relationships
2. Meet new people
True or False.
Medication will cure me of my symptoms.
False. Medication will help level out the chemical imbalance and help keep someone level.
Symptoms can decrease or go away but medication doesn't cure mental disorders.
This is the highest highs of cycling moods. Often a person will start off happy and overly excited leading someone to take part in more risky behavior, but if they stay in this state for too long, they could become easily agitated. What symptom am I?
MANIA
I feel responsible for things that are not my fault. I feel like eating everything in sight some days, and leaving the security of my dark room seems impossible. I feel lowly and worthless, sometimes I think I'm better off not being here anymore. What is my diagnosis?
Depression
Sally was speaking with Bob.
Bob: I heard that someone with mental disorders are dangerous and hostile.
Sally: You know I struggle with Bipolar Disorder. Sometimes, I can get too excited and make some risky choices. But I'm not dangerous or hostile. I have good days and I have rough days but I'm still me.
How did Sally combat stigma?
Selectively disclosing her own experiences.
Where are three good places to meet new people?
Peer support groups, NA/AA (or other support programs), Coffee shop, work, school, park, at leisure activities, etc.
What medication helps treat cycling moods?
Mood Stabilizers
This is the “lack of” expression, motivation, and pleasure. This symptom is noticed when someone stops participating in things that typically show off who they are. What symptom am I?
NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS
Everything seems like so much, and too many people are overwhelming. I’m am terrified to raise my hand or volunteer to read because then every body is staring at me. I feel this sense of impending doom all of the time. What is my diagnosis?
Anxiety Disorder
Sally was speaking with Bob about moving into a new apartment.
Bob: I heard that someone with mental disorders are dangerous and hostile, I would never rent to them.
Sally: That actually is illegal under the Fair Housing Act. You can't dismiss someone's application because they have a disability. Even a mental health disorder.
What did Sally do to combat stigma?
She is aware of her legal rights.
How can you improve new and old relationships?
Compliment them, share interests, ask personal questions, share personal stories, negotiate fun activities, Etc.
What medication takes less time to work (1-2 hours) and can be addictive due to its chemical makeup?
Antianxiety Medication
This makes it hard to think about abstract concepts. I have a hard time remembering things and being able to stay focused on a task. What is my symptom called?
Cognitive Difficulties
Who provides you with your diagnosis upon entering Maple Lane?
The forensic evaluator.
Why is it important to learn about your symptoms and diagnosis?
It helps prevent self-stigma.
What do you do if someone says they are your friend, but their actions tell you otherwise?
If they care about you then they will show it. Not just say it. Remember you deserve to be treated with respect and compassion.
What are PRN's?
Medication you have to ask for, in the moment, as needed. Not routinely given to you by the nurse. One you have to ask for and give a reason to why you need it.