Psychiatric disorders

This week,I began training on a psychiatric ward with one of my professors for a month.Week one was really interesting but more eye-opening.Due to the fact that I had moments of depression growing up,I am very compassionate towards those who are diagnosed with mental disorders.

Depression can affect anyone at any point in life.There are many factors that can cause depression but according to experts and scientists,there is a chemical imbalance in the brain.The chemicals that are imbalanced are called neurotransmitters (NTs).The main types of NTs involved in depression are norepinephrine (NE), serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA).Genetics also plays a role in these disorders.I know your brain probably hurts from all the terminology but understanding the cause of a problem can actually help fix the problem.

I believe that I’m being trained on a psychiatric ward to expand my knowledge as an intern pharmacist but to also be a blessing.The interesting thing about the psych patients I have met thus far is that most of them look normal.Psychiatric disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and substance abuse are not detectable to the naked eyes.We all know people who are hurting inside but they are smiling on the outside. So people need to be diagnosed by psychiatrists because if left untreated, death can occur.

Thursday, a well-known music producer/manager by the name of Darrel Lighty (aka Chris Lighty) killed himself after an altercation with his wife according to New York’s daily news.This, shortly after 68 year-old film director Tony Scott committed suicide last week Sunday.There are more stories of suicide but I want you to recognize that mental disorders can overtake anyone who does not seek medical attention.My heart goes out to the families especially the children involved. More and more teenagers are being affected by mental disorders and this hurts my heart.

My goal is to bring awareness to the silent but yet-loud thoughts in our minds that we encounter in the midst of painful situations.We live in a society where sharing weaknesses brings shame, ridicule and embarrassment.I want to let you know that if you feel hopeless,defeated or having thoughts of suicide, it is OKAY to cry out for help.This does not mean that you are weak.Confessing your weakness according to the bible actually makes YOU strong.

While interacting with bipolar and depressed patients who self mutilate themselves to escape pain, I have come to realize that committing suicide is a selfish act. Why is it selfish? It is selfish because there are people who are counting on us to live because our presence means something to them whether we believe it or not. Then there are people who do not have family or friends around but God did not create anyone out of purpose.Everyone on this earth has a purpose.

The advancements in science as it relates to treating mental disorders have come a long way.There are a lot of patients who are being treated professionally and their lives are improving significantly. It may take some time before you can get back to living normally again, but your life is valuable so do NOT give up.

In conclusion,the bible promises us that we will experience trials in this life but please find someone to talk to who will not judge you but help you. It doesn’t matter how old you are (13 or 60 years old), you deserve to live a normal life again. I believe that God can heal your mind and spirit because He loves you. I was fortunate enough to recognize my need for help as a teenager and I reached out for help. However, two years ago I had an anxiety attack and was rushed to the hospital and it has changed my life.I have learned to relax, pray and find ways to release stress and frustration.I hope this post helps you to evaluate your life and save it because you’re worth living.

I know it hurts so bad but trust me there is life- AFTER the pain.

Feel free to comment or send me an email to ladylorneka@gmail.com