In this weeks lesson we learned a great deal about just a few of the psychological disorders that exist. Along with learning about these disorders themselves, we also learned about many of the misconceptions society has shrouded these illnesses with as well as some possible treatments. All in all I think this weeks lesson was one of the most interesting and thought provoking lessons we have had.
Which of the disorders covered in your lessons do you think would be the most challenging to have and why?
For me the disorder that stood out the most was Schizophrenia. On their website, the National Institute for Mental Health describes Schizophrenia as, “a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves,” going on to say that, “People with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality.” It can be an incredibly debilitating disorder that heavily disrupts a person’s everyday life.
Which of its symptoms would prove the most difficult for you?
One of the many symptoms I would have trouble coping with would be the hallucinations. I have hallucinated in the past due to an extreme fever so the idea of it being a daily occurrence is terrifying to me.
What would you most need from society and loved ones if you had the disorder you selected?
The biggest thing I would need is acknowledgment that I have a mental illness. I come from a deeply religious family and at first they would probably chalk it up to demonic interference or even possession. This would definitely lead away from the help that I would actually need.
What might be some treatment options you could pursue to alleviate symptoms of your selected disorder?
Anti-psychotic drugs could help suppress some symptoms of schizophrenia. In addition, regularly visiting with a proficient psychologist may help with learning how to cope with symptoms during everyday life.
