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Disability awareness > Module 4 > Page 8

 

Disability - understanding the issue

Mental health disabilities

According to the annual report of the Mental Health Commission in 2002, mental health is a key health issue. Between 20% and 25% of the population will be affected by a mental health problem, i.e. over 700,000 people in Ireland. ( The Irish Psychologist, Aug. 2003). Unlike other disabilities, mental illness can be episodic and intermittent throughout a person's life. An individual who can function effectively when well may need to temporarily disengage from a course of study when ill.

Some people may experience just one episode of mental illness before making a full recovery.

What is mental illness?

Mental illness is a medical condition and refers to a particular group of illnesses. No single cause has been identified but genetic and biochemical factors have been linked to depression and schizophrenia. It is not known, however exactly what triggers the onset of the illness although stress may be a factor for some vulnerable individuals. The relationship between stress and mental illness however, is complex.

People with mental health disabilities can be socially disadvantaged through:

• limited choice due to low income
• loss of social status
• low expectations of others
• fewer opportunities to learn new skills
• interruptions to education or employment

Loss of confidence and self-esteem are significant compounding factors of mental illness. The stigma attached to mental illness is significant and many people experience isolation and rejection.

Improvements in the treatment of mental illness means that many people are able to lead normal lives in the community.

Types of mental illness

Mental illnesses are generally separated into two main categories:

1. Neurosis
2. Psychosis

Neurosis

• depression
• anxiety disorders
• eating disorders
• personality disorders

Anxiety disorders include post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder and anxiety or panic attacks.

Psychosis

The main categories of psychotic illnesses are:

• Schizophrenia
• Bi-Polar Disorder (Manic Depression)

During a psychotic episode, the person can lose touch with reality or is unable to distinguish between reality and fantasy.

Common symptoms of psychotic disorders are:

• alterations in thought, emotion, perception and behaviour. These changes may include hallucinations, hearing voices and paranoia.

Implications for education

• people with mental health problems may need to take medication. Some of the common side effects of medication includes, drowsiness, poor concentration, thirst and blurred vision.
• students may have difficulty in meeting assignment deadlines.
• stressful conditions such as exams, may affects a student's academic performance.
• the person can lose confidence in their ability to perform tasks.
• it may be difficult for the person to sustain motivation for long periods.

Communicating with a person with a mental health disability

The following points should be noted when communicating with a person with a mental health disability:

• ask the person how you can best help.
• be clear about what you expect.
• avoid becoming a therapist.
• check that the person understands what is required.
• recognise and acknowledge the person's stress levels.
• eliminate, where possible, physical stress triggers, such as excessive noise or crowding.

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