Tragedy In Psychiatry DVD — A Harrowing Case Study, But Necessary Watch
Our ‘Tragedy in Psychiatry’ DVD, although a useful case study, is also a difficult watch. It features interviews with a mother and her daughter, who is mentally unwell. She explains her daughter’s first worrying symptoms.
When did things start to seem different?
The most concerning symptoms, in the beginning, were when she came home from work to find her daughter had covered all of the mirrors and put crosses everywhere. When she asked why she said that the angels didn’t like her, they were judging her. It wasn’t at all obvious where this was coming from. She underwent treatment soon after this, however, despite medication and therapy she was still suicidal. This meant that she was being monitored in a hospital.
What did the patient say?
The daughter was asked in an interview if she had any plans to end her life. She said that she couldn’t see herself attempting to end her life. It is revealed that soon after saying this, she did make an attempt. This highlights the importance of monitoring, regardless of what the patient may say. Sadly, she followed this attempt with another and didn’t make it. There is an interview following in which her mother expresses her grief.
Why is this DVD useful?
Although our ‘Tragedy in Psychiatry’ DVD is harrowing, we think it’s very important for those in the psychiatric profession to view, whether they be nurses or doctors. The program is cut into segments, with each one followed by a discussion with medical professionals. They speak about what their thoughts on diagnosis may have been, what the symptoms are, and how they may approach treatment. They also discuss ways to approach the symptoms that the patient experiences. It is a helpful breakdown of a complicated collection of symptoms. They discuss psychosis, delusions, and paranoia; along with this, medications are also discussed.
Caring & Bereavement
The programme also shows the impact that caring for somebody with severe mental health problems can have on a family member, as well as losing them. This brings up questions like, “What can be done to help those caring for family members?” And, “How can we help those who have lost somebody to suicide?” A good step forward is to ensure that people are aware of local support groups for carers and bereavement so that they’re not alone.
