The police were called to an apartment after Sally called to report a burglary. Sally often heard voices that weren’t there and hallucinated. When police arrived, Sally had difficulty understanding the police officer, making decisions to follow their instructions, and focusing on what was being said.
The police had been to Sally’s apartment several times before due to false reports of an intruder; however, the police were unaware of Sally’s mental illness. That call ended with Sally, pregnant with a second child, being shot to death by two officers. While she struggled for her last breath, its imagined that she spent those last moments most likely suffering in silence, all the while lacking the knowledge that her mental health illness could have been managed.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five or roughly 43 million Americans are affected by a mental illness. Although most of these conditions are not disabling, nearly 10 million American adults (1 in 25) have serious functional impairment due to a mental illness, such as a psychotic or serious mood or anxiety disorder. Meanwhile, a study published by the American Psychological Association in 2010 reports especially those with higher levels of education are less likely to see mental health services.
When mental health issues occur, most individuals suffering from the affliction do not understand what is happening to them. Often, neither do their loved ones.
Depending on the type of mental health illness, there may be a number of signs and symptoms such as: depression, chronic pain, increased risk-taking behavior, substance abuse, not maintaining personal hygiene, poor judgement, lack of concentration, unusual behavior, decreased sex drive, increased sex drive (which then leads to promiscuity), aggressive behavior, mood swings, withdrawal from friends and family, loss of interest in activities, decreased energy levels, trouble sleeping or excessive sleep – and the list goes on.
Recovery is attainable, starting with several key concepts in how we view mental illness. These concepts will not only assist with reducing the stigma but increase the likelihood of recovery.
A few of those key concepts are:
- Educate ourselves on the signs and symptoms of mental health issues.
- Educate ourselves on treatment options available.
- Talking more openly and consistently about mental illness, reduces the shame and stigma associated with the topic.
- Create a Stress management diet and exercise regimen.
- Join or start a support group for family and friends that may be dealing with a loved one suffering from a mental illness.
- Seek professional help from a competent provider who you trust, and that includes you in your treatment process.
- When seeking a competent professional – ask questions about the professional’s credentials, background and experience in dealing with your particular issues.
