For Additional Information: National Alliance on Mental Illness
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Depression--feelings of severe despondency and dejection
- Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
- Appetite, weight & sleep changes
- Anger or irritability
- Loss of energy
- Reckless behavior
- Concentration problems
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Consistent feelings of sadness or irritable mood
- Lapse in Cognitive abilities
- Physical changes in abilities
- Lost interest in or pleasure from routine activities
- Persistent thoughts of death or suicide
- Chronic physical symptoms that non-responsive to traditional treatments--these include headaches & digestive disorders
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Living With Depression Learning how to live with depression. Even though depression is a topic many still feel is taboo within the African American Community. These women have openly discussed their personal lived experiences with depression. Statistical data reports that one Black person dying every 4.5 hours by suicide in the U.S., is evidence that this is a subject the African American community and the healthcare profession need to address with serious dialogue for ways to reduce suicide rates, the gap between those diagnosed and those who receive treatment and health disparity. |
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Bipolar Disorder --There are notable signs related to bipolar disorder.
Bipolar Disorder--a mental disorder marked by alternating periods of elation and depression.
Bipolar Disorder--a mental disorder marked by alternating periods of elation and depression.
- Frequent moods or feelings of depression for extended periods of time; feeling sad or empty, tearful
- Noticeable loss of interest or enjoyment in regular activities
- Noticeable weight loss without effort or weight gain from drastic change in eating habits; as a result of decrease or increase in appetite
- Loss of sleep or increased desire for sleep
- Agitation
- Cognitive difficulties, unable to hold thoughts
- Decrease in physical movements
- Extreme Fatigue or Low levels of energy
- Desperate feelings of worthlessness or unwarranted guilt
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Manic Episodes
- Major Depressive Episodes
- Distorted View of Reality
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Jenifer Lewis
"In a May 2005 interview, “Think Like A Man” actress Jenifer Lewis discussed her plight with bipolar disorder. Ever since, she has been willing to talk about the mental illness.
Since she was diagnosed in 1990, Lewis said she tried various therapies and medications. But she said she found that the key to coping with the disorder is to love yourself." Atlanta Black Star
Super-normal Identity--When faced with an illness individuals can determine not to allow the illness to deter them or interfere with their current lifestyle. They commit to not allowing the illness to hinder them from being better than they were before their diagnosis.