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Open Magazine - Index

Open Magazine - magazine - Index

decrease my stress. When I heed the warnings of relapse, I
stay firmly on the right track.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association
website, www.cmha.ca, it is important to research the
symptoms of psychiatric disorders to become knowledgeable
about the illness. It is also important to be aware that
the illness is beyond the control of the individual who is
suffering.
Many families are embarrassed by mental illness
and may avoid social interaction. The CMHA does not
recommend keeping mental illness a secret. They advise
open communication with others about treatment, progress
and challenges.
Personal safety should always be a top priority. CMHA
advises that if a family member puts him or herself, or you,
in danger, you may need to seek other accommodations.
Common Symptoms of
Mental Illness
The Canadian Mental Health Association
guide, “Mental Illness Affects Us All” (pg.
10-11), look for the following symptoms of
mental illness:
• Confused thoughts, delusions or
hallucinations;
•
•
•
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•
•
•
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Extreme fears or anxiety that seem
”out of proportion” to circumstances
or events;
Lack of motivation for a prolonged
period of time (longer than two
weeks);
Persistent feelings of helplessness or
hopelessness;
Loss of interest in activities previously
enjoyed;
Extreme mood swings between
depression and mania, sometimes
with overly reckless behaviour;
Repeated unusual actions such as
hand washing or checking of lights;
Unexplained physical symptoms such
as nausea, trembling, fatigue, or
headache;
Difficulty concentrating and/or
sudden irritability;
Disruption to usual sleep patterns;
Serious disturbance in eating
behaviour accompanied by a
preoccupation with body image;
Talk or thoughts about suicide.
Autumn and Dana Stringam have been married 17 years
and have four healthy children. They are public speakers
who regularly advocate for new practices in mental health
care. Autumn’s book, A Promise of Hope, was published by
HarperCollins in 2007. For more information about nutritional
support for mental and physical well-being, visit www.
truehope.com. For information about mental health support
in your community, visit www.cmha.ca.
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