In the Know   The Inservice Club for Nursing Assistants Imagine going through life feeling like no one understands you—and like you don’t even understand yourself.  Over the years, family members have said that you’re “crazy”, “loony”, “batty” and “mad as a hatter”.   Some people in town call you “nuts”, “schizo”, and “screwy”.  They cross to the other side of the street when they see you coming. You’re afraid to talk about the weeks you’ve spent in the hospital.   People might think you’ve truly “lost your marbles” or tease you for being in the “loony bin”, the “funny farm” or the “nuthouse”. You’ve worked so hard to get better.  You take three different medications every day to keep your symptoms under control—even though sometimes the medications make you feel worse.    For a while, you had a  full-time job at a daycare center.  But, you got fired because some of the parents found out about your illness. You’d give anything to have an “acceptable” illness...like diabetes.   Instead, you have a mental illness.  You feel alone and scared...and you wonder how you can get through the rest of your life.  This is only one small example of the problems faced by people who are mentally ill. A mental illness is a disease of the brain that affects the way a person thinks, acts and feels.  Many mental illnesses have a physical cause— just like cancer or diabetes.  But,   mental disorders can also be caused by a person’s life experiences or environment. Mental illness can strike anyone at any age.  Think of it like this:  Anyone with a heart can get heart disease... and anyone with a brain can get a mental disorder.   Mental illnesses are more common than cancer, diabetes and heart disease! What Is Mental Illness? Special points of interest: ·  See page 5 for the warning signs of mental illness and for information about treating mental illnesses. ·  See page 9 to read about famous people with mental illnesses. ·  See page 12 for questions and answers about mental illness. The History of Mental Illness in America 2 Interesting Facts 3 Common Myths About Mental Illness 4 Basic Information About Mood Disorders 6 Basic Information About Schizophrenia 7 Basic Information About Anxiety Disorders 8 Tips for Working with the Mentally Ill 10, 11 Inside this issue: © 2000   In the Know, Inc. 306 Brandermill Drive       Durham, NC  27713 www.knowingmore.com May be copied for use within each physical location that purchases membership in the Inservice Club.    All other copying or distribution   is strictly prohibited Almost everyone with a mental illness can   be helped to enjoy a better quality of life!    You can make a real difference in the lives of your clients!