The Catcher in the Rye Analyzing Holden Caulfield

A Clinical Diagnosis You will be given facts about various types of mental illnesses. As you know from the opening of the novel, Holden is in a hospital. You are a doctor in this hospital, and you have spent time with Holden (via the novel). Your task is to prepare a two-page clinical diagnosis paper.

Your report MUST include: 1. A summary, in your own words, of the mental illness you think Holden suffers from. 2. A detailed explanation of why you feel Holden suffers from this condition with four text examples (quotes) from the novel to support your diagnosis. 3. A recommendation about what medicine he should take. 4. A warning about side effects. 5. What other treatments (i.e. therapy) you recommend.

Clinical Depression This is a state of sadness that is so advanced that it disrupts the daily living of the individual It is acknowledged by physicians as being more serious than normal depressed or “feeling blue” feelings It can be treated with anti depressants, and/or counseling to help the individual locate the source of the despair or melancholia Clinical depression will interfere with an individual’s ability to function socially and to live on one’s own

Bi Polar Disorder Bi Polar disorder causes dramatic mood swings, which are referred to as highs and lows The clinical term for a “high” mood is: a manic episode The clinical term for a “low” is: a depressive episode Both have varying symptoms that can range from moderate to severe Bi Polar disorder is treated with medication to attempt to control the frequency and intensity of the episodes Counseling is also recommended

Bi Polar Disorder: Manic Episode Patient exhibits restlessness A patient may initially be very happy, but will quickly become very irritable Thoughts are rapid and the patient’s speech will be fast They will show poor judgment and often indulge in spending sprees There may be an increase in drug use, such as alcohol or cocaine Severe episodes may involve overtly aggressive behavior

Bi Polar Disorder: Depressive Episode Depressive episodes manifest with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or hopelessness Patient exhibits a loss of interest in activities, including sexual activity, and an overall feeling of fatigue Patient exhibits difficulty with concentrating or recalling easy facts There is a change in appetite and a change in sleep patterns and weight In a severe case, there are thoughts of suicide, or suicide has been attempted

Schizophrenia Individuals who suffer from this disorder may hear voices or see people who are not really there Patient may think others are reading their minds or trying to control their actions Patient believes that people are plotting to harm them Individual may experience withdrawal from society, or extreme anger or anxiety They may not make sense when they talk or may talk about unusual or strange topics They can sit for hours without moving or talking It is difficult for sufferers to hold a job or care for themselves for any real length of time It is treated with medication and therapy, but there are always residual symptoms