Introduction to MENTAL ILLNESS

MENTAL DISORDERS Many terms may be used, such as “mental illness”, “mental health problems” or “behavioral disorders.” Each disorder is different in each person. There is no “have it” or “don’t have it”. Mental health is a continuum or spectrum. Mental disorders vary from person to person and from time to time.

MENTAL DISORDERS Mental disorders are biologically based. A person cannot “catch” a mental disorder from another person, although genetics do influence the development of some disorders. Parents with mental disorders do not “cause” disorders in their children.

MENTAL DISORDERS w Thought processes, moods and emotions and perceptions are affected by mental disorders. w Each disorder is different, and each person expresses a disorder uniquely. w Context or environment affects the way a person expresses their disorder.

MENTAL DISORDERS What matters most is the life impact. Cause is less important than current effect. Most persons with identified mental disorders respond positively to treatment.

MENTAL HEALTH A new working definition of recovery from mental disorders and substance use disorders has been announced by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

RECOVERY w The new working definition of Recovery from Mental Disorders and Substance Use Disorders is as follows: w A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.

RECOVERY w Through the Recovery Support Strategic Initiative, SAMHSA has also delineated four major dimensions that support a life in recovery: w w Health : overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) as well as living in a physically and emotionally healthy way; w Home: a stable and safe place to live; w Purpose: meaningful daily activities, such as a job, school, volunteerism, family caretaking, or creative endeavors, and the independence, income and resources to participate in society; and w Community : relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery emerges from hope: The belief that recovery is real provides the essential and motivating message of a better future – that people can and do overcome the internal and external challenges, barriers, and obstacles that confront them. w

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery is person-driven: Self- determination and self-direction are the foundations for recovery as individuals define their own life goals and design their unique path(s).

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery occurs via many pathways: Individuals are unique with distinct needs, strengths, preferences, goals, culture, and backgrounds, including trauma experiences, that affect and determine their pathway(s) to recovery. Abstinence is the safest approach for those with substance use disorders.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery is holistic: Recovery encompasses an individual’s whole life, including mind, body, spirit, and community. The array of services and supports available should be integrated and coordinated.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery is supported by peers and allies: Mutual support and mutual aid groups, including the sharing of experiential knowledge and skills, as well as social learning, play an invaluable role in recovery

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery is supported through relationship and social networks: An important factor in the recovery process is the presence and involvement of people who believe in the person’s ability to recover; who offer hope, support, and encouragement; and who also suggest strategies and resources for change.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery is culturally-based and influenced : Culture and cultural background in all of its diverse representations ? including values, traditions, and beliefs ? are keys in determining a person’s journey and unique pathway to recovery.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery is supported by addressing trauma : Services and supports should be trauma-informed to foster safety (physical and emotional) and trust, as well as promote choice, empowerment, and collaboration.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery involves individual, family, and community strengths and responsibility: Individuals, families, and communities have strengths and resources that serve as a foundation for recovery.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w Recovery is based on respect : Community, systems, and societal acceptance and appreciation for people affected by mental health and substance use problems – including protecting their rights and eliminating discrimination – are crucial in achieving recovery.

Guiding Principles of Recovery w SAMHSA is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities.

Introduction to Intellectual Developmental Disability

Components of Intellectual Developmental Disability w Sub-average intellectual functioning an IQ of 70 or less w Deficits or Impairments in Adaptive Behavior Maturation, Learning, Social Adjustment w Origination Period between conception and 18 years of age

Four Classifications of IDD w Profound w1-2% Severe w3-4% Moderate w10% Mild w85%

Some Known Causes of IDD  German Measles in mother during pregnancy  Syphilis, Meningitis, Hydrocephalus, Diabetes Mellitus  RH factor incompatibility  Malnutrition  Chromosomal abnormalities  Metabolic Disorders  Alcohol or Drug use by either parent (even more risk where pregnant mother uses – fetal alcohol syndrome)  Destruction of brain tissue  Birth trauma (anoxia, compression of the head,etc.)  Brain inflammation due to illness  High fever  Inadequate prenatal care

Disabilities Confused with IDD  Autism  Cerebral Palsy  Dyslexia  Attention Deficit Disorder  Communication Deficits  Hearing Impairments  Seizure Disorders

Common Misconceptions w A classification of IDD or Mental Illness does NOT classify the person, it actually classifies the w disorders that people have.

Value-Based Philosophy People can:  Explore and discover themselves  Learn what their capabilities are  Learn what living, working, and leisure options are open to them  Lead lives that they want to lead People are valued because they are HUMAN BEINGS!!!

Summary of Intellectual Developmental Disability  It is an incurable condition that begins before age 18, and there are many conditions that can be confused with it.  Each person must be treated as an individual, with a plan so that they may reach their full potential with as little interference from others as possible.

INTERACTIONS WITH CONSUMERS

w Relating with consumers is an important part of your job. w At times, it may be difficult and consumers may behave in ways that are difficult to understand. w Here are some basic guidelines that are helpful in dealing with most consumers.

Make Eye Contact w Look at the person when you speak. w Some people find it hard to make eye contact, so don’t insist on it in such cases

Smile w Shows that you are friendly and at ease. w Consumers may respond to the way that you present yourself.

Be Clear w If necessary, give instructions or information one step at a time

Special Considerations for an Aging Population

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS w Less endurance w Less mobility w Loss of muscle strength w Cardiovascular problems w Bone brittleness w Loss of muscle mass wDwDental problems wJwJoint pain & stiffness wTwThinning hair, nails wSwSensitive skin wWwWeight loss/metabolism wDwDehydration wBwBowel/ urinary problems wSwSusceptibility to illness

PHYCHOSOCIAL CONDITIONS wLwLOSS of INDEPENDENCE wLwLOSS of FAMILY, FRIENDS, INTERESTS wGwGROWTH in COPING STRATEGIES

SENSORY CONDITIONS w CHANGES in TASTE w CHANGES in VISION w CHANGES in HEARING w CHANGES in ATTENTION/MEMORY

Conclusion w You will learn much, much more on the job w Above all, remember that people with disabilities are…. PEOPLE FIRST!!!