Mental Illness: Denial or Awareness?

By Rokhsareh Shoaee, PhD, LPC

Genoa Healthcare LLC

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Mental Illness: Denial or Awareness?

We hear a lot and read a lot on media stories, incidents and horrible news about events in our daily life.  Often experts are called to analyze different factors, causes and reasons for unexpected shocking events we witness.  It is during these episodes that we hear about mental health issues, diagnoses and treatment modalities.   

Despite great efforts from professionals as well as government/private sectors to educate the public, we still witness repeated incidents that put the issue of mental health in the headlines.  Answering this question is not easy because it entails many pieces of this puzzle.

Do we need more community education or more funding to address mental health for younger ages? Or is it the stigma attached to the word of mental illness that prevents us from addressing the behavioral health?  Despite focusing on the stigma of mental illness and avoiding the discussion of the problem, we do know that there is astounding news regarding the power of our brain. That is the outcome of half a century of experiments and research by neuroscientists, which prove the neuroplasticity of the brain and how brain changes throughout our lives.    

If we accept such a discovery, then it is expected that the old taboo of “mental illness” should be wiped out of our belief system and our shame category.

Plan for Action:

What is the problem? Is there a dangerous situation (homicide, suicide). If yes call 911. Are drug abuse or legal issues part of the problems?

Who is the patient?

Check resources in your community and have a cursory check on the therapists’ credentials.

Prepare a brief history, a list of medications, if any, and the description of the behaviors, i.e., fights, defiance, rage, as well as intensity and frequency of actions? Has she/he attempted any self-harm or suicide?

How to Select a Therapist?

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors specialized in mental health and prescribe medications.

• Clinical psychologists hold PhD’s, and do testing and treatment.

• Social workers usually hold a Masters or PhD and conduct clinical therapy.

• Professional counselors hold a Masters or PhD in counseling and provide clinical therapy.

• Pastoral counselors hold graduate degrees and provide counseling within the auspices of the church.

It is also recommended that after selecting your clinician, discuss the goals of the treatment with that person.