Working with Mental Illness in an Emergency Shelter Presented by LaTonya Murray

2 What is Mental Illness? Biologically-based brain disorders Responsive to medical treatment Symptoms can come and go Often difficult to diagnose and treat correctly

3 Classifications Psychotic Disorders (Schizophrenia) Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder) Anxiety Disorders (PTSD) Personality Disorders (Antisocial) Substance Abuse Disorders (Alcohol Dependence)

4 Schizophrenia Symptoms Hallucinations: Auditory (hearing voices) are the most common Delusions: Fixed false beliefs (i.e., paranoia or grandiosity) Hallucinations and delusions are VERY real to the person experiencing them and this is often reflected in behavior.

5 Schizophrenia Symptoms (cont’d) Disorganized Speech Poverty of Speech Disorganized Behavior Abnormal Emotions Social Withdrawal Cognitive Problems: Concentration, Attention, Problem Solving, Abstraction, Motivation

6 Worker’s Role Accept that the psychotic beliefs are real Provide support with concrete needs Empathize with feelings Exhibit patience with disorganized behaviors May have to separate to decrease anxiety

7 Major Depression Symptoms must last 2 weeks (often lasting longer) Symptoms: Sadness and/or inability to experience pleasure Change in weight Change in sleep

8 Major Depression Symptoms (cont’d) Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt Lessened ability to think or concentrate Indecisiveness Hopelessness Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

9 Worker’s Role Alert appropriate staff, if available Suicide prevention Don’t try to “cheer up” Concrete direction and encouragement Offer support and realistic hope

10 Bi-Polar Disorder Symptoms: Fluctuation between mania and depression Worker’s Role: Depends on where person is in cycle

11 Post Traumatic Stress Disorder A cluster of symptoms that develop as a response to extreme trauma Examples of Traumas: Sexual and Physical Abuse Domestic Violence Homelessness Death of a Loved One Natural Disaster

12 PTSD Symptoms: Nightmares Flashbacks Extreme Anxiety Feelings of Detachment Outbursts of Anger Hypervigilance

13 Worker’s Role Alert appropriate staff, if available Listen with empathy, but do not “dig” Do not minimize feelings Understand that trauma survivors may seek ways to feel in control-including blaming others Seek support

14 Resources ADAMHS Board Mobile Crisis Team (MHS, Inc.) Available 24/

15 Q & A