Discussion #4

Discussion #4

by Emilee Jones -
Number of replies: 3

  1. Labels allow individuals with psychological disorders to understand the scientific meaning behind their disorders. However, names like schizophrenics, depressives, and phobics objectify persons who suffer from these disorders, encouraging prejudiced and derogatory beliefs about them (Spielman p. 546). Those suffering from psychiatric problems, like those suffering from cancer or diabetes, are subjected to severe, frequently painful situations that are not of their own doing (Spielman p. 546). Labels can reinforce the belief that individuals suffering from psychological disorders are defined by them.

  2. It is possible that many individuals feel receiving professional help is shameful. Mental illness is not widely accepted in society and is harder to discuss as such. Other individuals may believe that they are not ill and therefore need no medical assistance. Some disorders are more challenging to diagnose because the patient might be unaware of their illness. 

  3. Individuals with schizophrenia seem especially difficult to work with. Only the individual with the disorder can see certain hallucinations and hear voices (Spielman p. 573). These are often difficult to describe as a result, harder to understand. Disorganized thinking can cause incomprehensible and illogical speech that does not assist in connecting with the individual (Spielman p. 573). The differing types of delusions would be increasingly challenging for the medical specialist to ground the individual in reality. 

  4. When an individual begins to act differently than usual, this is an indication that they could possess suicidal tendencies. Excessive anger and crying, lack or abundance of sleep, giving personal items away, undervaluing personal relationships, reckless substance use, staying out late, and finding no enjoyment in regular activities are symptoms a suicidal individual may show (Clinic, 2013). Showing support and care for an individual who talks about harming themself can help them feel as though they are valuable and increase their self-worth (Clinic, 2013). Introducing the suicidal individual to a counselor or medical professional can also be beneficial as can taking the individual to the emergency room or calling 911 (Clinic, 2013). 

Thank you for reading!

Resources

Clinic, M. (2013). Teen suicide prevention [Video]. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BByqa7bhto 

Spielman, R. M. (2014). Psychology. Openstax.



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In reply to Emilee Jones

Re: Discussion #4

by Sara Bailey -

I loved reading your discussion post! I agree with basically everything you said, especially about diagnosing mental disorders. While I do think that it can put the person at ease, knowing the reason behind why they are suffering, it can also cause problems for them because their disorders can lead to people stereotyping them and causing problems in their everyday social life. And I also agree that psychological disorders are not typically accepted in society, and they are frowned upon. I think that something needs to change in this society so that people can not be ashamed of their disorders and they can feel comfortable reaching out and trying to get the help that they need.

116 words

In reply to Emilee Jones

Re: Discussion #4

by Lily Cai -

Hey Emilee! You did an amazing job with what you said and it was incredibly well-written and I couldn't agree more. I especially liked how you answered question two when you said," Mental illness is not widely accepted in society and is harder to discuss as such." I couldn't agree more as people have grown ashamed of speaking up as it singles them out making them feel unworthy or less than others. I also agree that working with people who have schizophrenia can be harder for counselors and teachers. I couldn't even imagine the patience needed in order to get the point across. 

103 words

In reply to Emilee Jones

Re: Discussion #4

by Rebecca Heyworth -

I completely agree with the sentiment expressed. While labels aid in understanding psychological disorders scientifically, they can dehumanize individuals and reinforce prejudiced beliefs. People facing psychiatric issues endure significant hardships not of their own, akin to those with physical illnesses. The stigma surrounding mental health often leads to shame in seeking professional help, with mental illness carrying societal taboo. Some may deny their illness, making diagnosis challenging. Schizophrenia poses unique challenges due to personal hallucinations and disorganized thinking hindering communication. Recognizing signs of suicidal tendencies, like behavioral changes, becomes crucial. Offering support and empathy is vital to convey value and improve self-worth. Introducing them to professionals or emergency services can be highly beneficial in such situations.

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