Due to ongoing military action in Iraq and the continuing terrorist threat looming over the country, American citizens are experiencing many strong emotions. For most people, intense feelings of anxiety, sadness, grief, and anger are healthy and convenient. However, some people may have deeper and more debilitating reactions to war. This may be a particular case for those with serious mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, bipolar illness, depression, drug abuse problems, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
It is important to remember that people react to trauma differently, and each has its tolerance for difficult feelings. When facing a crisis, a person who has a mental illness may experience their disorder's symptoms or see new symptoms emerge.
Some consumers who have been through this situation report warning signs. Here are some common signs of an impending relapse:
- Disruption of routine activities, such as attending school or participating in family activities
- Alteration in sleeping hours or eating habits, neglect of appearance, coordination difficulties, small blackouts from recent events
- Changes in mood, feeling of lack of self-control or excessive agitation, suicidal or violent thoughts
- Assume attitudes that make others think that you are disconnected from reality
- Hearing or seeing things that others do not hear or see
- Inability to get an idea, thought, or phrase out of mind
- Trouble thinking or expressing yourself clearly
- The decision not to continue taking medications or follow the treatment plan (skip visits, etc.)
- Inability to enjoy those things that are usually pleasant
- Inability to make even routine decisions
Different people may have different warning signs, so watch out for anything that doesn't seem normal. If the people around you notice any changes, listen to what they have to say to you. You may not have noticed a change in his behavior at all. Be sure to inform your doctor or treatment team of any changes, especially any thoughts or thoughts of suicide or self-injury.
Even in uncertain times like the ones we are living in today, you must take an active role in managing your disease. Continue with the treatment plan that you have developed with your doctor or treatment team.
- Take your medicines as prescribed by your doctor
- Be sure to attend your therapies
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Do not use illegal drugs or any other drug that your doctor has not specifically prescribed
- Write a journal
- Take the laboratory tests and psychological tests that your doctor has prescribed
- Stay in touch with or join a support group
- Report any signs of relapse to your treatment team
To overcome the current crisis, turn to the people and tools at your disposal:
- Take relatives and friends. Don't feel ashamed to call for assistance.
- Keep the psychiatrist and your care staff aware about how the war effects you.
- Get in touch with self-help groups and support organizations dedicated to helping people with serious mental illness and associated problems.
- Get involved in peer groups and other programs that can help you better manage your disease, from social centers to housing, employment and recreation opportunities.
- Find out as much information as possible about your illness and what you need to do to recover.
- Using the machine to get information about the condition and communicate and share thoughts and perceptions with the same individuals.
- Stay connected to your spirituality, if it helps you feel better. Look optimistically at the challenges ahead.
Find out what helps you feel better. The recovery process, especially in times of war and crisis, is not easy. Stay fully involved in the process by sticking with your treatment plan and seeking the help you need, when you need it.
Mental Health America has several resources to help you and others deal with the national crisis we are experiencing, including fact sheets on post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, coping with the loss of a loved one, helping children cope a war and other issues. When feel you have a mental disorder then must join any recovery groups.