DUAL DIAGNOSIS
After months and months of continuing research on how mental health illness affects the progression of Alzheimer's patient, I am finally back to the classroom -Friday August 24, 2012.
Memory loss that disrupts every day life is NOT a normal part of aging. It may be a symptom of Dementia (ie, a gradual and progressive decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills). The most common cause of dementia is the Alzheimer's disease, a disorder that results in the loss of brain cells.
Findings have shown that mental health disorders are very common with Alzheimer's patients. Mental health by its definition: is how people think, feel, and act as they face life situations. It affects how people handle stress, relate to one another, and make decisions. Mental health influences the ways people look at themselves, their lives as well as others in their lives.
The first thing MH Alzheimer's patient experience is depression (this is due to confusion / changes in life situation). Depression is a treatable medical illness that can happen to anyone. However, people with Alzheimer's are at greater risk for depression, partly because of the brain damage caused be the disease. Depression can or may make it harder for a person who has Alzheimer's disease to function, to remember things, and or enjoy life. There by making the Alzheimer's patient at a higher risk in cognitive ability.
Many research studies have shown that the number of Alzheimer's patients who are affected by mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders are significant. After the Fed govt, the National Alzheimer's Association is the leading funding source for Alzheimer's research in the United states. You too can make a difference by volunteering in different aspects of the organization including services, education, advocacy and special events.
You can also take private classes on how to care for your loved ones and service to your community.
Dr. Fenny Braide is a psychotherapist and Evidence-based research trainer in Alzheimer's disease at The Metropolitan Healthcare Institute.
Email: fnn2@aol.com
