Forensic Mental Health, the Law & Practical Application
When it comes to mental illness, there are many different aspects related to their effects on society. One area of study centres around forensic mental health, which arises when someone with a mental illness is caught up in the law. The forensic mental health system is important for a variety of reasons, and significant in helping determine proper outcome of criminal cases involving those who suffer from mental illness. In some cases, people who have committed a crime may not, because of their mental state, be aware of or understand what they have done, or they may be unable to understand what the outcome of their actions will be.
There are many myths about mental health, including that people who suffer from mental illnesses use their troubles as an excuse for behaviour. However, these myths need to be dispelled and mental health problems taken seriously. Forensic mental health is used to look beyond public perception and dive into the scientific evidence behind someone’s actions. It looks at the contributing factors that influenced someone’s decisions, most often in the case of someone breaking the law or acting in a disorderly way. Falsehoods about mental health are quite counterintuitive and very damaging toward not only the individual who may have committed a crime because of their mental illness, but to society as a whole because of its lack of a basis in truth. This leads to further trauma in their lives and influences their future decision making.
Forensic mental health is necessary in order to make sure that cases are dealt with in an appropriate manner. If someone is suffering from a mental health issue, such as schizophrenia or paranoia, incarceration is likely not going to benefit anyone involved. They may end up repeating their offence after being released because the underlying problem that caused them to take an action in the first place was not addressed. To this point, forensic mental health can lead to more positive outcomes in the judicial system, such as ordering an offender to receive treatment and or serve a sentence in a facility that is equipped to offer proper rehabilitation and help for an individual. Forensic mental health is not only beneficial to society at large by offering the offender adequate and appropriate help, it can help decrease the likelihood of those offences occurring repeatedly through treatment instead of purely punishing the individual.
When someone who is suffering from a mental illness is convicted of a crime and sentenced solely to jail time, it only fuels the confusion, frustration, and lack of compassion that plagues the world of mental health. There are more progressive, helpful, and appropriate ways to deal with a situation. While serious crimes to require severe punishment in some cases, forensic mental health aims to tackle the underlying disorders or diseases which influence poor decision making.
Through counselling, medication, and rehabilitation, people suffering from mental health problems can see a positive impact and become contributing members of society. Sometimes traditional methods of punishment are in no way effective, which wastes time, money, and leads to repeated behaviour. It can also lead to more intense suffering for the person who has the mental illness, fueling the fire so to speak.
There are many different players in forensic mental health. From judges to lawyers to the police, many different authorities need to understand its effectiveness as a rehabilitation tool. Awareness and understanding of mental health illnesses and how they can affect and influence an individual’s actions is important.
It is our aim at our March Mental Health Seminar to raise more questions surrounding this topic and discuss how to be most effective in implementing quality forensic mental health practices. We urge anyone who is interested in this area to attend in order to learn more and help end the shame, falsehoods, and inadequate rehabilitation that is prevalent in society.
Brief Introduction to Schizoaffective disorder
What is Schizoaffective disorder?
Schizoaffective disorder is the amalgamation of schizophrenia and mood disorders, this is perhaps the reason why this specific condition is not as well defined as other mental disorders. People suffering from schizoaffective disorder are often found struggling in their personal and professional lives. Untreated patients find solace in isolation and tend to live lonely lives.
Brief History of Schizoaffective disorder
Jacob Kasanin in 1933 coined the term schizoaffective psychosis, before that this disease was treated as another mental disorder [1]. Since this disease is one of those rare mental disorders in which the patient suffers from both mood swings and schizophrenia, thus the doctors and psychiatrists initially thought it to be another form of schizophrenia. Kasanin was the first person who claimed it to be a special disorder as he thought that this mental condition of patient lied somewhere in between schizophrenia and mood disorder.
How Schizoaffective Disorder Works
Person suffering from schizoaffective disorder is accustomed of having paranoid thoughts and confusions which leads to delusions and hallucinations. Patients have also reported that their thoughts are pretty much disorganized due to which they tend to speak quickly and abruptly in order to overcome their confusions. Depression is another major symptom of schizoaffective disorder that affects the social life of the patient.
Current treatment options for Schizoaffective Disorder
Treatment of Mental Illness before modern medicine.
Doctors usually prescribe therapy and medication in order to overcome depression and mood swings.
Once the patient gets rid of his depression then the process of psychotherapy and counseling starts, which helps the patient come out of his shell. Antidepressants are also recommended by some psychiatrists but should be used carefully.
7 tips to help manage schizoaffective disorder
Schizoaffective disorder is a common mental disorder nowadays and can easily be cured following few simple techniques.
- Antidepressants help the patient get out of depression and also help with the mood swings. These are also found helpful in overcoming feelings of hopelessness and sadness.
- If the patient is having trouble with delusions and hallucinations then antipsychotics are the best solution. Doctors usually prescribe these to the patients who found it difficult to fight absurd thoughts and weird notions. These although prove mighty helpful but should only be used if prescribed by a specialist.
- Mood stabilizers also help if the patient is suffering from bi-polar mental disorder. As the patient goes through different phases of depression and mania, thus these mood stabilizers help the patient stay normal.
- Family counseling is an integral part of treatment of schizoaffective disorder as the patient trusts only few people, thus support from family can help patient recover quickly.
- Group therapy is also advised by some doctors as the patients get to know each other and easily open to people that are suffering from same disorder thus patients recover speedily if they attend regular sessions.
- Counseling is another remedy for this particular disorder and is found to be effective as the specialists use number of techniques which help in the fast recovery of patient.
- Patient himself/herself needs to show courage and should have a strong conviction which will help them come out of this trauma quickly.
References:
1. Schizoaffective disorder, [Available at]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schizoaffective_disorder#History
Brief Introduction to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
This article gives a brief overview of OCD, find out more about Personality Disorders at our Public Health Information Session 'Anxiety & OCD' - 7:00pm 28th July 2015.
What is OCD?
OCD or Obsessive compulsive disorder is a mental disorder in which the person feels an anxious need to perform task, rituals or check, in repeatable patterns. These OCD checks can be things like: twisting a door knob 4 times, followed by turning off & on a light switch 7 times; every time the sufferer leaves the room. It is not uncommon for sufferers to maintain a state of cleanliness, with repeated hand washing a common symptom.
People suffering from OCD or obsessive compulsive disorder struggle to control their thoughts and activities. Many sufferers will admit that their need to perform these rituals is their biggest hurdle to overcome. To give you an idea of the condition, imagine your brain hijacks your body, flooding it with thoughts of dread & anxiety and the only way to stop this process is to perform a series of actions in a specific order; and if you mess up once, you will need start all over again. This gives you some insight into how burdensome OCD can be.
Brief History of OCD
In the late medieval ages, it was believed that people who experience obsessive or sexual thoughts were possessed by the devil, thus they were treated through exorcism. We have come along way since then with Sigmund Freud first attributed unconscious conflicts as OCD symptoms. OCD is an illness that affects people regardless class or social barriers, with many popular celebrities suffering from OCD [1].
How Does OCD Works?
OCD is characterized by baseless and unreasonable fears and thoughts that lead to repetitive behavior. People suffering from OCD may not realize that the obsessions and compulsions are unreasonable; however some do. If the patient tries to overcome these compulsions it increases the anxiety and distress. As a result patient is forced to perform repetitive tasks in order to relive and ease out the discomforting feelings.
Current treatment for OCD
Currently there a numerous treatments for OCD that include both medication and therapy. Anxiety medication is advised by doctors to aid in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive disorder.Therapy is another remedy for OCD and has proved to be one of the best treatments for OCD. Doctors also sometimes advise anti-depressants but this depends on the state and condition of the patient.
7 Tips to Help Manage Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Make a list of things that make you anxious and then separate the ones that are not realistic. Often the person feels powerless in getting rid of compulsion, noting down these feelings might help.
- A person suffering from OCD should accept and understand that they have a condition that can be managed & treated. Acceptance is often the first proactive step to controlling anxiety.
- Keeping a journal and noting down the ways through which you combated your fears is a great solution to get rid of your compulsions.
- Try to reduce the number of repetitions of your compulsions. For instance, if you wash your hands ten times try to reduce it to eight and then cut it to six, eventually you will get rid of your compulsion.
- Delaying the compulsion is also a good idea, for example, if you check the stove every five minutes; try to increase the time span to ten minutes. This is a good technique for pushing out the time between rituals and minimizing their impact on your life.
- Anxiety medication for OCD helps in some cases but do not take medicine without consulting a doctor.
- Therapy sessions have always proven helpful in these sort of situations and going to a qualified counsellor or psychologist will help you on your road to recovery.
OCD is an interesting mental disorder that demonstrates how we we as people can be trapped by our own mental anxieties. OCD is currently thought of on the internet as the need for perfection, seeing it referenced in memes of ill-fitting tiles & rotated man hole covers; but the condition is far more intricate and obstructive (in a persons life) then these examples. It is important to know more about mental illness, to improve the treatment and acceptance of mental illness in our society. If you found it interesting learning this brief insight into OCD, then you're should attend our our Mid-Year Public Health Seminar on Anxiety & OCD.
Lead by Clinical Director Anneke Bull, this session will provide you with a thorough understanding of Anxiety & OCD. Tickets can be bought at the door, booked via email, txt or purchase using the below link.
TICKETS ARE LIMITED. Book now to avoid missing out.
References
1. Michael Knowles, 20 Celebs You Would Never Believe Have OCD And Anxiety. [Available at]: http://www.rantlifestyle.com/2013/10/25/20-celebs-never-believe-ocd-anxiety/.
Brief Introduction to Anxiety
Feelings of worry and uneasiness about a situation with uncertain outcomes is known as anxiety. Anxiety is one of the most common problems in today’s world, with many people suffering in one way or another from anxiety (at some point in their life). Find out more about Anxiety.
This article gives a brief overview of Anxiety, find out more about Personality Disorders at our Public Health Information Session 'Anxiety & OCD' - 7:00pm 28th July 2015.
What is Anxiety?
Feelings of worry and uneasiness about a situation with uncertain outcomes is known as anxiety. Anxiety is one of the most common problems in today’s world, with many people suffering in one way or another from anxiety (at some point in their life). People suffering from anxiety can sometimes become easily concerned, worried and fearful; and this can have a significant impact on their life and their productivity.
Brief History of Anxiety
Man has always been anxious before encountering tense situations. It was not until 1869 that anxiety was given the status of an illness by a young doctor named George Miller Beard. He for the first time coined the term neurasthenia, which is the modern equivalent of anxiety disorder. He called this condition ‘nervous exhaustion’ and concluded that it affected the ambitious middle and urban class members [1].
How it Works
Overthinking about future is the first and foremost symptom of anxiety disorder. Brain plays tricks with the person as he overthinks and over calculates certain situations. In such a scenario patient needs to be with a person who could comfort and console him. These anxiety attacks don’t last long and a person needs to be in a good company in order to see through these attacks.
Current Anxiety Treatment Options
Apart from medication and therapy there are many other techniques that can be used to overcome anxiety. Meditation is a quick remedy for anxiety and is advised by many doctors and psychiatrists. Regular exercise sessions also prove helpful in overcoming anxiety. Good company is recommended to all patients of anxiety. Patients can recover more quickly form episodes with the support and company of close friends and family members. Building a good working relationship with a qualified counselor or psychologist can be quite helpful in the treatment of anxiety.
7 Tips to Help Deal with Anxiety
Dealing with anxiety can be quite difficult at times, however the following are some tips to help you effectively manage aspects of your condition.
- When a person is suffering from anxiety his brain starts coming up with ideas that are absolutely bizarre and have no roots. In this situation person needs to relax and should start questioning his ideas and thoughts. The moment patient starts questioning their thoughts, anxiety attack washes out.
- Visualizing good times is one of the handiest techniques that psychotherapists recommend. In case of an anxiety attack, the sufferer should close their eyes and think about positive thoughts (consider reflecting on a pleasant memory or event in your life). It could be anything a family get-together or sight of a loved one; this will help them manage the attack.
- Meditation is another useful technique that can be adopted in order to manage anxiety.
- Warm baths are recommended, as they have a soothing effect on the body and aid in relaxation.
- Find ways that will help manage stress. Keeping track of deadline will prevent sufferers from becoming overwhelmed by looming priorities; thus decreasing the onset of anxiety attacks.
- Picturing oneself successfully facing and overcoming all the fears is another technique that is highly recommended by psychiatrists.
- Regular sessions with people who care helps overcome moments of great anxiety.
Anxiety is a common condition in Australia, affecting men and women alike. Concern & worry that comes with Anxiety, often leaves lasting impacts on the sufferers and their close friends & family. Knowing more about this condition is the best way for you to help aid the treatment of Anxiety and end the stigma of mental illness. If you're interested in learning more about Anxiety & OCD, then you should attend our Mid-Year Public Health Seminar on Anxiety & OCD.
Lead by Clinical Director Anneke Bull, this session will provide you with a thorough understanding of Anxiety & OCD. Tickets can be bought at the door, booked via email, txt or purchase using the below link.
TICKETS ARE LIMITED. Book now to avoid missing out.
References
- Scott Stossel, A Brief History Of Anxiety, [Available at]: www.psychotherapynetworker.org/magazine/recentissues/2014-novdec/item/2573-a-brief-history-of-anxiety.
Brief Introduction to Personality Disorders
Personality Disorders are a deep rooted and maladaptive pattern of behavior of a specific type, that causes troubles when one reaches adolescence. It affects the relationships and performance of a person in a society. Personality disorders are further classified into three clusters with each having its own symptoms and traits. Personality disorders are curable and if provided proper aid and medication these disorders can be cured within a short span of time.
This article gives a brief overview of Personality Disorders, find out more about Personality Disorders at our Public Health Information Session 'Personality Disorders - 7:00pm 14th August 2015.
What are Personality Disorders?
Personality Disorders are a deep rooted and maladaptive pattern of behavior of a specific type, that causes troubles when one reaches adolescence and affects the relationships and performance of a person in society. Personality disorders are further classified into three clusters with each having its own symptoms and traits. Personality disorders are manageable and if provided proper counselling and medication these disorders can be effectively managed.
Brief History of Personality Disorders
History of personality disorders spans back to Greek civilization. Personality disorders were recognized properly by the doctors and physicians in 19th century. These mental health disorders were categorized into clusters during late 20th century. Personality disorders have been known to haunt man from a long time, in each era these disorders were treated differently. Modern researchers believe that ancient Greek and Chinese civilizations had a cure for these disorders [1].
How Personality Disorders Work
These personality disorders are divided into three clusters. Cluster A disorders are characterized by odd thinking, behavior, schizoid and paranoid personality disorder. Person suffering from cluster A disorder shows no or less interest in social affairs and always remains scared of unknown fears. People suffering from cluster B disorder are dramatic and unpredictable in their approach. These people are constant attention seekers but do not regard the feelings of others. Cluster C includes people that are extra sensitive and are excessively dependent on others. Moreover they fear rejection and criticism and are known to not take it well.
Current treatment options for Personality Disorders
Psychotherapy is the treatment that is being used nowadays for personality disorders; this lasts for six months at least, depending on the severity and condition of patient. These are sessions with a trained individual that helps the person recover emotionally and psychologically. Families play a vital role in the process of therapy and a supportive family multiplies the recovery rate at least by two times.
7 Great tips to help manage Personality disorder
Self-therapy is the best treatment for a mental illness and following the below mentioned simple steps will help the patient to recover speedily.
- Help the patient stay calm and in case of any panic attacks help the patient and talk to him about other things rather than talking to him about his fears and source of panic. Staying positive is the best way to fight a personality disorder.
- Do not take any medication without the proper consent of a doctor. Talk to a doctor or a therapist and seek their help and advice.
- Stashing the mind with positive thoughts is also a good remedy in case of personality disorder as this helps in the diversion of attention.
- Help the patient in avoiding anger and try not to seek revenge as the patient is not doing this intentionally, thus family and friends need to understand the complexity of situation.
- Be polite and nice to the patient and show them that small deeds of kindness help a lot, assist them in overcoming their fears.
- Muster up the courage and face your fear, remember that offence is the best defense.
Try to visualize yourself as a successful person who has left behind all his fears and has overcome all the hurdles and obstacles.
Personality Disorders are interesting conditions that illustrate the complexity of the human brain. Personality Disorders are often misrepresented in film & TV by evil villains like Hannibal Lecture. The truth of Personality Disorders is far more interesting that anything that could be penned by a screenwriter; but the stigma left by these stereotypes can seriously impede many sufferers from seeking the help they need. If your interested in learning more about Personality Disorders, then you should attend our Mid-Year Public Health Seminar on Personality Disorders.
Lead by Clinical Director Anneke Bull, this session will provide you with a thorough understanding of Personality Disorders.
Tickets can be bought at the door, booked via email, txt or purchase using the below link.
TICKETS ARE LIMITED. Book now to avoid missing out.
Robert Downey Jr. – Actor, Alcohol Abuse, Drug Abuse and Mental Illness
Introduction
Born 4 April 1965 Robert Downey Jr made his screen debut at age five in the movie Pound directed and produced by his father. Described as an art house movie, this was the environment Downey grew up in surrounded by the stars of the time, witness to their antics and behaviors. His mother also an actress instilled in him a love of acting, a counterpoint to his father’s more bohemian approach to life.
His father’s influence was to have a lasting effect on Downey; when at age six Robert Downey Sr gave him his first experience of using marijuana which was to set him on his path of self-destruction.
When talking about his childhood Downey has been reported as saying I don’t want to go all Michael Jackson on you, but I never really had a childhood.
Robert Downey Jr always knew he wanted to act, when his parents separated at age thirteen; he followed his father to New York, and then returning to Hollywood to pursue his own career.
The Early Years
Robert Downey Jr started his career like many aspiring actors playing bit parts that largely went uncredited. Through the 1970’s and 80’s he began compiling a creditable portfolio of work.
His most noted role during this time was in Saturday Night live. In 1987 he starred in the movie Less Than Zero, portraying a young drug addicted male. Little did anyone know how closely art would imitate life.
Air America (1990) along side Mel Gibson (who has had his own battles with drug and alcohol addiction), propelled Robert Downey Jr further into the limelight and was the beginning of a life long respect and friendship with Gibson.
Even as his fame grew through his work on Ally McBeal it was most notably during this period Downey’s addiction to drugs became public knowledge through Downey himself who’s behaviour had become erratic and unpredictable.
Drugs and Mental Illness
As his drug addiction grew, so did the unpredictability of his behaviour. It has been recorded and documented in various forms of media the trouble Downey got himself in, including breaking into a neighbors’ house and falling asleep in their son’s bed, wandering around streets in a drugged state and even driving a car naked in possession of drugs and an unloaded handgun.
April 2001 after yet another arrest Downey was sent by court order to the California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison, in accordance with the newly passed California Proposition 36, which allowed non-violent drug offenders to go into rehabilitation rather than prison.
During an interview about his drug habits Downey is reported to have described his drug taking activities as a kind of emotional bond between father and son – something they shared together.
Rumors have circulated over time that Downey also suffered depression and Bi-Polar disorder; these claims are purported to have been made by his Stepmother and a psychiatrist who Downey supposedly rang for assistance. Robert Downey Jr himself has personally refuted these claims and to this time they remain unverified.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Robert Downey Jr attributes the failure of his relationships and two marriages to his drug addiction.
In 2003 after completing his rehabilitation Robert Downey Jr. once again returned to acting in the movie Gothika. It was while filming this movie that he met and married his third and current wife Susan. It is believed by many and by Downey himself she was paramount in bringing about change by providing him with a stable home life. The couple now has two children together and Downey has been reunited with his older son from one of his previous marriages.
Believed to have been drug free since 2003 Downey credited support of his friends and family, meditation, yoga, therapy and a twelve-step recovery program for his drug free state. When asked about his time in prison/rehabilitation Downey had this to say, ‘I wouldn’t wish that experience on anyone else, but it was very very educational for me, and has informed my proclivities and politics ever since’. Downey is also on the board of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition.
November 2004 saw Robert Downey Jr do an interview with Oprah where he spoke to her about his decision to finally get help and kick his drug habit. During the interview he discussed how in the end the decision to get help was actually harder than asking for the help in the first place.
Conclusion
Many options including counselling and various forms of therapy are available to assist anyone who suffers with drug and alcohol addiction. Robert Downey Jr. has taught us that one of the best things a person can do when battling inner demons, is too seek professional help. The other road of drugs and alcohol may seem like the instant fix we want, but it will only end up hurting you more. If you or someone you know needs to speak to someone about drug related mental illness, Bipolar Disorder or other mental illnesses; know that we at AB Consultation and Counselling Service are always here to help you on your road to recovery.
FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP
COUNSELLING SERVICES ENROLLMENT & ENQUIRY FORM
Brief Introduction to PTSD
This article gives a brief overview of Post-Traumatic stress disorder, find out more about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder at our Public Health Information Session 'PTSD & Phobias' - 7:00pm 11th August 2015.
What is PTSD?
PSTD is a mental health condition that is triggered by a disturbing, terrifying and traumatic event either by witnessing or being involved in it. Early symptoms of PSTD are severe anxiety, nightmares and troubling, uncountable and frequent flashbacks of the event. People who witness a troubling event are less likely to develop Prost-traumatic stress disorder; however those in the event who are assaulted physically, mentally or sexually may be more likely to develop PTSD.
Brief History of PTSD
Man has always fallen victim to trauma, in some conditions time heals anxiety and nightmares but sometimes it is difficult to get rid of painful thoughts. PTSD was first given importance in 1980 when it was added to the third edition of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder. Since then a major chunk of mantle patients have been categorized as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
How PTSD Works
Witnessing a traumatic situation does not cause PTSD, or does being a part of the situation but it is a common observation that people who are exposed to assault based trauma are more likely to suffer from PTSD. Patient hears voices and recalls event frequently, moreover PTSD also suffer from anxiety and major stress. Children are less prone to PTSD when compared to adults. Whilst PTSD exists amongst many victims of assault; it is still common to see PTSD in returning War Veterans.
Current treatment options for PTSD
Since the patient suffers from multiple other problems as well, thus medication is prescribed by doctors for anxiety and stress. Family therapy is the best remedy for PTSD. Patient needs comfort and care, thus doctors prefer the family therapy as it helps the patient heal at a much greater rate. Patient needs to open up and talk about his fears in order to get rid of stress; patient is close to family thus the chances of success increase through family therapy.
7 Tips to help manage PTSD
Patient can use self-therapy in order to get rid of PTSD. Following the below simple steps will help patient return to normal life.
- PTSD leaves a person terrified and this increases with time. Social interaction acts as a catalyst in the recovery process. Try to spend more time with people who care for you. Instead of locking yourself in a room, come out and meet people.
- Don’t keep quiet as it upsets your friends and family. Don’t make false assumptions that people don’t want to hear you. You are not a burden on the family so stop cursing yourself.
- Taking care of your body through exercise and jogging, keeps you fresh and thus spends up the recovery process.
- Indulge yourself in healthy activities such as gardening and horse riding. Don’t sit alone; watch a lot of TV as it will help you wipe off the troublesome memories.
- Accept the fact that you will be exposed to flashbacks and instead of getting worried and scared try to embrace it graciously.
- As soon as you see any sign of stress, take necessary measures to stop it before it gets out of control.
- Make sure you get a lot of healthy sleep. Sleep is important in the management of PTSD, as sleep deprivation aggravates moodiness and anger.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is a serious condition for men and women alike; left untreated, it can serious consequences on the sufferer, their family and friends. The burden of PTSD on the sufferer is a lot to bear, and whilst society has come a long way in helping with this burden, we still have a long way to go. The best way for you to help, is to get more informed about PTSD and mental health. One way to learn more about PTSD in particular is through our Mid-Year Public Health Seminar on PTSD and phobias.
The session will be lead by Clinical Director Anneke Bull, with a special guest presenter who will tell you about his experience with PTSD, which developed after someone attempted to kill him. Grab your tickets and get a first-hand account of what PTSD is and how it really affects someone’s life.
Tickets can be bought at the door, booked via email, txt or purchase using the below link.
TICKETS ARE LIMITED. Book now to avoid missing out.
Michael Jackson - Mental Health, Childhood Trauma & Drugs
Michael Jackson or the ‘King of Pop’ is arguably one of the greatest musician that ever lived. He was a record producer, actor, dancer, songwriter and singer. He was well known for his pop music and phenomenal dance skills; but also equally well known for his uncertain mental health, eccentric adult life and drug use.
Michael Jackson or the ‘King of Pop’ is arguably one of the greatest musician that ever lived. He was a record producer, actor, dancer, songwriter and singer. He was well known for his pop music and phenomenal dance skills; but also equally well known for his uncertain mental health, eccentric adult life and drug use.
Michael Jackson or the ‘King of Pop’ is arguably one of the greatest musicians that ever lived. He was a record producer, actor, dancer, songwriter and singer. He was well known for his pop music and phenomenal dance skills; but also equally well known for his uncertain mental health, eccentric adult life and drug use.
Michael Jackson was given birth to on the 29th of August 1958 to Mrs. Katherine Esther Scruse and Mr. Joseph Walter “Joe” Jackson. He grew up in Gary, Indiana in their family house. He had 9 siblings, 7 of whom were senior to him. In 1965, he joined his father’s band, the Jackson Brothers as a backup singer. The group’s name later changed to Jackson 5 in 1966.
Michael Jackson dived into film and songwriting in 1982. He wrote a part of the song “Someone in the Dark” for the Extra-Terrestrial. In 1982, he also released his thriller album which up till today has the record of having highest sales in the whole world in 1983. His singles and albums won him a lot of awards some of which include: longest run of an album staying 37 weeks at number one with his thriller album and spending 80 weeks consecutively in Billboard 200 top 10 amongst many others
Michael Jackson went on to release more hit albums like Bad in 1987, Dangerous in 1991, Invincible in 2001 and more. Michael wasn’t just confined to the recording studio, embarking on some tours including ‘MJ and Friends’ in 1999, ‘History World’ tour (1996-1997), ‘Dangerous’ World Tour (1992-1993) and ‘Bad’ (1987-1989). Prior to his death, he was preparing for his last tour ever. The ‘This Is It’ tour was going to be Michael Jackson’s big farewell; but he never made it to his final tour, dying on 25th June 2009.
Michael Jackson and his Mental Health
Despite his fame and wealth, Michael Jackson’s life wasn’t all roses, having a series of troubles, one of which was suspected mental ill-health. Michael Jackson joined his father’s band at the age of 7. His father seemed to be a strict disciplinarian as he once stated that he was abused by his father. Their father trained them for their performances and once you missed a dance move or made any mistake, you were flogged. Michael Jackson’s inability to be able to please his father left a vacuum in him. It left him with the feeling that he was not good enough and that he could not please anybody; leading to significant impacts on his adult life (remember before his tragic death, a lot of us unashamedly called him ‘Wacko Jacko’).
One of trouble he had later was cases for sleeping with children in 1993 and in 2003. Furthermore, he got married and divorced twice to Lisa Marie Presley and Deborah Jeanne Rowe respectively. All of these events probably also further dented his self-esteem and believe in himself. This thus led to anxiety as he seemed to rely on drugs to be able to bring him to sleep. His first wife admitted to the stress from the 1st child abuse case having a mental effect on Michael Jackson which led to faltering health and drug addictions. She suggested that he should go for rehabilitation to recover.
If Michael didn’t go through the childhood experience of having a father that was hard to please, he wouldn’t have had to depend on drugs which later led to his death as he was reported to have died from cardiac arrest suspected to be as a result of the use of overdose of drugs. Furthermore, if he had gone through rehabilitation earlier, he may have been able to deal with his anxiety; instead of seeking relief through drugs.
The Tragedy of Michael Jackson's Death
The tragic story of Michael Jackson is not uncommon, with a lot of people turning to drugs and alcohol to numb their pain. It is unclear if Michael Jackson had any diagnosed mental illness, however his reliance of drugs and his terrible, abusive upbringing; are an indicator that he needed help. Perhaps because of his celebrity status, the idea of this icon seeking help for his inner demons was something that Michael Jackson couldn’t bring himself to do; for fear of the tabloids confirming what they all suspected of him. It is this kind of stigma towards mental illness that we as a society need to fight against, as seeking help is not a sign of weakness and you should never feel ashamed about it.
If you have pain inside of you, it is far better for you to seek help and speak to your GP or contact a qualified Counsellor or Psychologist. Counselling psychology can help you work through many of your most traumatic events, in a healthy, safe environment. We are currently taking new enrolments for our counseling clinic. We accept by private sign-ups and referrals through Medicare & private health insurance (please check with your private insurance to confirm coverage).
Find Out How We Can Help
Counselling Services Enrollment & Enquiry Form
Brief Introduction to Depression
Depression has been prevalent since the dawn of human existence, but prior to the 1920’s, Depression was known as Melancholia. Depression is more than just feelings of sadness; it is a physically and mentally draining illness that impacts the daily lives of its sufferers. Failing to seek out treatment can lead to devastating consequences like social network breakdown, physical deterioration, self-harm and suicide. Get a brief introduction to Depression.
This article gives a brief overview of Depression, a, find out more about Depression at our Public Health Information Session 'Bipolar & Depression' 7:00pm 30th June 2015.
[Trigger Warning – Depression & Suicide]
What is Depression
Depression is more than just feelings of sadness; it is a physically and mentally draining illness that impacts the daily lives of its sufferers. It is completely normal to feel sad if something upsetting happens to you, whether losing a job or breaking up with your partner; feeling sad after these events is completely normal. Depression is a far greater and more pervasive mood disorder, where feelings of sadness or being depressed do not go away after a normal period of time (i.e. 2-3 weeks).
Depression is a serious illness and due to the stigma attached to ‘being depressed’ and societal ignorance of mental illness, sufferer can often go untreated or be afraid to seek help. Depression, like a broken foot or Influenza, is a real disease/condition that requires medical treatment. Failing to seek out treatment can lead to devastating consequences like social network breakdown, physical deterioration, self-harm and suicide.
Self-Harm & Suicidal Thoughts
If you or someone you know has been having suicidal thoughts or engaged in self-harming, it is incredibly important you speak to someone immediately about it. Speak with a person you trust, like a family, friend, counsellor or teacher.
If you need to speak to someone now about you depressed mood and suicidal thoughts, please call an emergency mental health services like Lifeline 13 11 14.
Symptoms of Depression
The following are some examples of symptoms of Depression that people with Depression may exhibit. If you read these symptoms of Depression and think ‘wow, that’s me’ or ‘that sounds like my partner/friend/etc.’, you should speak to your GP (or ask your partner/friend/etc. about their feelings and encourage them to see a GP).
Symptoms of Depression – Feelings
- Lacking confidence, indecisive
- Feeling guilty, overwhelmed, alone
- Irritable, unhappy, frustrated, miserable and sad
Symptoms of Depression – Behaviour
- Choosing to withdraw from close family and friends, not going out anymore
- Work/School activities are not being completed, struggle to concentrate
- Relying on sedatives and/or alcohol
- Not doing activities you used to enjoy, finding it hard to do activities because of their lack of fulfillment and/or enjoyment
Symptoms of Depression – Thoughts
- “It’s all my fault”, “I failed again/ I fail everyday”, “I am completely worthless”,
- “No one would come to my funeral”, “Why am I being kept alive?”, “I could be lying here dead and no one would know”, “People would be better off without me.”
- “Life is sh%t, and no one cares”, “My life is a complete mess”
Symptoms of Depression – Physical
- Feeling tired, sick & rundown all the time
- Headaches, churning gut, muscular pains
- Problems with sleep
- Changing appetite, significant non-attributable (i.e. increased exercise) weight loss or weight gain
History of Depression
Depression has been prevalent since the dawn of human existence, but prior to the 1920’s, Depression was known as Melancholia. The ancient Greeks attributed Depression to an imbalance of the four humors; with the term melancholia meaning ‘black bile’. In the 11th Century, the Persian physician Avicenna, described in his work ‘The Canon of Medicine’ [1] Melancholia as a depressive mood disorder and this became the standard of medical thought throughout Europe and central Asia for many centuries.
Whilst numerous enlightenment & romantic era scholars, physicians & psychiatrists contributed to refining Depression, it wasn’t known as Depression until 20th Century psychiatrist Kurt Schneider coined the terms ‘reactive depression’ and ‘endogenous depression’ in the 1920’s. In the 1970s, Us Clinicians proposed the term Major Depressive Disorder and over the last 50 years there have been numerous scholarly debates and research into Depression.
Getting Help for Depression & Suicidal Thoughts
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in Australia; and the 3rd most common of all diseases within Australia [2]. If you or someone you knows is displaying symptoms of Depression, then you should talk to a close person about your feelings; ask them to listen to you and refrain from offering advice, as you really just need someone to care. Seeing your GP if you are displaying some Depression symptoms is a good step; as they can help point you in the right direction and refer you to trained professional. Lastly, there a numerous organisations out there that can help you such as: BeyondBlue, Headspace & Lifeline. AB Consultation and Counselling is available to help guide you on your road to recovery and deal with your Depression.
If you found this interesting and you want to learn more about Depression, then be sure to purchase your ticket for our Bipolar and Depression Seminar; hosted on 30th June 2015 at 7:00pm.
Clinical Director, Anneke Bull is providing an in-depth presentation about Bipolar and Depression. Anneke Bull spent over 30 years working in the public mental healthcare system and she has seen it all.
So if you are interested in learning more about the interesting world of Bipolar and Depression, then you won’t want to miss out on this presentation.
A Brief Introduction to Alzheimer’s Disease
This article gives a brief overview of Alzheimers Disease, which is the most common condition that causes Dementia, find out more about Dementia at our Public Health Information Session. 2nd Session 'Dementia & Delirium' 7:00pm 16th June 2015.
Brief History of Alzheimer’s Disease
Emil Kraepelin
In 1901, a 51-year-old woman, Auguste D, was admitted to the state asylum in Frankfurt, Germany. The patient’s chief medical complaints were: cognitive and language deficits, auditory hallucinations, delusions, paranoia and aggressive behavior.
The patient was studied by Alois Alzheimer (1864–1915), a doctor at the hospital. Alzheimer moved to the Munich medical school in 1903 to work with Emil Kraepelin – one of the foremost German psychiatrists of that era -and when Auguste D died in April 1906, her brain was sent to him for examination. In November 1906, Alzheimer presented Auguste's case at a psychiatry meeting, and he published his talk in 1907. In 1910, Kraepelin coined the term 'Alzheimer's disease.
How Does Alzheimer’s Affects the Brain?
The two most significant physical findings in the cells of brains affected by Alzheimer's disease are neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Another significant factor in Alzheimer's disease is the greatly reduced presence of acetylcholine in the cerebral cortex. Acetylcholine is necessary for cognitive function.
Neuritic plaques, or patches appear in excessive numbers in the cerebral cortex of Alzheimer's disease patients. A protein called beta amyloid occupies the center of these plaques. Surrounding the protein are fragments of deteriorating neurons, especially those that produce acetylcholine (ACh), a neurotransmitter essential for processing memory and learning. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transport information or signals between neurons.
Neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are twisted remnants of a protein called tau, which is found inside brain cells and is essential for maintaining proper cell structure and function. An abnormality in the tau protein disrupts normal cell activity.
Five Tips for Carers/Family Members of people with Dementia
Caretakers/family members play a crucial role in the quality of life of people with Dementia. There are several things that caretakers/family members can do for their loved ones suffering from this disease, the following are a few suggestions:
- Keep a sense of structure and familiarity.
- Try to keep consistent daily times for activities such as waking up, mealtimes, bathing, dressing, receiving visitors, and bedtime. Keeping these things at the same time and place can help orientate the person.
- Let the person know what to expect even if you are not sure that he or she completely understands.
- Use cues to establish the different times of day
- Involve the person in daily activities as much as they are able.
This has been a brief introduction to Alzheimer’s and Dementia. If you found this interesting, be sure to purchase your ticket for our Dementia & Delirium Seminar; hosted on 16th June 2015 at 7:00pm.
Clinical Director, Anneke Bull is providing an in depth presentation about Dementia & Delirium. Anneke Bull spent over 30 years working in the public mental healthcare system; with a specialization in aged care. So if you are a carer or just interested in learning more about Dementia & Delirium, then you won’t want to miss out on this presentation.